Keir Starmer's brutal advice to England men's football team after Lionesses' victory
The Prime Minister has given some brutal advice to England men's football team after the Lionesses secured back-to-back victories at the Euros.
Keir Starmer, who is a huge football fan, branded the women's team "history makers" after watching them roar to success in Switzerland last night. After a gruelling 120 minutes of play, the Lionesses clinched onto their title in a tense penalty shootout against Spain.
It came after the team showed nerves of steel in both the semi- and quarter-finals, where they beat Sweden and Italy after initially falling behind.
Asked if the PM thinks the England men's team could take a lesson or two from the women's team, Mr Starmer's official spokesman: "Yes, they should absolutely take a lesson. The bottle that women's team showed over the last few games is completely remarkable."
He commended how the team had "still managed to come back" in every game despite spending so little of the knockout stages ahead of the game, adding: "I'm sure one or the two on the England men's team will be watching on and taking notes as to how they follow in their footsteps."
Mr Starmer's spokesman added that the PM - who is a massive Arsenal fan - is hopeful for Arsenal women's season ahead, after the success and performance of its players Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly and Alessia Russo on the international stage.
Asked if the PM was "optimistic" for the Arsenal women's season next year, the spokesman said: "Yes, absolutely. I mean, they've shown what they can do for England team.
"Russo obviously scored a crucial equaliser last night as well. And yeah, Leah, what an amazing job she's done as captain to marshal her team and bring the trophy home. So yeah, he'll be certainly looking forward to hopefully that success translating onto the pitch for Arsenal Women."
England men's football team last won a major tournament in 1966, when they were victorious in the World Cup. At the men's Euro tournament last year, England were defeated by Spain in the final. The team also reached the final at the Euro 2020 competition, where they were lost against Italy in a penalty shootout.
Deputy PM Angela Rayner will host the Lionesses' historic victory at a special reception at No10 today. The reception will take place this afternoon, bringing together players, coaches, and representatives from The Football Association to mark this momentous achievement.
Ms Rayner said: 'Our Lionesses are absolute champions and they proved that again last night. Not only are they bringing it home for England again, but they're inspiring the next generation of champions too. It'll be a privilege to celebrate this amazing win with them in Downing Street."
No10 today ruled out an extra bank holiday to celebrate the Lionesses' achievement. Mr Starmer's spokesman said: "If we have a bank holiday every time the Lionesses win, we'd never go to work."
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