Norfolk coach says England winning the Euros would have a "massive impact" on the local game

England face Denmark and Slovenia, in their next two group games, after their opener against Serbia

Author: Tom ClabonPublished 16th Jun 2024
Last updated 16th Jun 2024

A football coach in Norfolk is telling us that England winning this year's Euros- would have a "massive impact" on the local grassroots game

Gareth Southgate's team face Serbia in their opening game of this competition, today- and will be looking to do one better on their second place finish, in the 2021 tournament.

"I think we'll get to the final"

James Buhlemann also works at Norfolk's Football Association.

"I don't think the squad has a weakness, aside from some of the injuries we have in our defence. But if you look at the front six and the options we have in those positions, every team would fear them, as well as the options we have to come off the bench.

"I think we'll beat Serbia 3-0 and I think we'll get to the final. But I do think there's going to be a penalty shoot-out for us to overcome".

James Buhlemann says the local game needs support to help make sure they can harness any bounce that comes:

"Some of the formats are looking to change and we know that's coming. But with that comes the need for different equipment, like goals. That could possibly be a short-term barrier but in the longer term it's helping to get more children to play in smaller formats and improve their game".

Who do England face after this?

-England vs Denmark, (Kick-off: 5pm BST, Thursday 20th June)

-England vs Slovenia (Kick-off: 8pm BST, Tuesday 25th June)

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