Walker intent on Italy payback in Euro 2020 final repeat

Adam Drury
LiveScore
Kyle Walker is likely to start for England against Italy
Kyle Walker is likely to start for England against Italy

Kyle Walker wants England to aim for "payback" when they play Italy at Wembley on Tuesday in a repeat of the Euro 2020 final.

The Three Lions were beaten on penalties in that showdown but the full-back believes they have improved further since then.

And the Manchester City defender, 33, is keen that they inflict some pain on the European champions.

He said: "We fell short that night but hopefully we can get a little payback.

"To do what we did in that special summer, to arrive so close, and then to concede a goal through a set-play when we've been so good — it was devastating.

"At club level, two years after losing to Chelsea we won the Treble. Teams learn from finals and setbacks and go on to achieve something great."

Gareth Southgate insists England will play to beat Italy
Gareth Southgate insists England will play to beat Italy

Manager Gareth Southgate has pledged that his side will play to win the game despite a point being enough to secure qualification for Euro 2024.

The Three Lions won the reverse fixture 2-1 in Naples in March and Southgate believes that kind of performance proves they are in better shape than ever.

He said: "We have experience of winning big matches and putting in consistent performances.

"The boys are consistently producing on memorable nights — exciting performances.

"Ultimately, our first objective is to qualify for tournaments.

"Our performances earlier in the group have put us in a strong position but we want to play well and win the game.

"But if it's the 87th minute and we're level, we don't need to lob the goalkeeper into the box."

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EnglandItalyEuropean ChampionshipKyle Walker