Jump directly to the content
EXCLUSIVE
overseas football

Gareth Southgate ‘doesn’t see any negatives’ to players going abroad like Jadon Sancho has

England manager Gareth Southgate does not see any negatives from players plying their trade abroad like Jadon Sancho has done in Germany.

Sancho has thrived since joining Borussia Dortmund from Manchester City, with his impressive performances earning him three England caps to date.

 Jadon Sancho has thrived in Germany with Borussia Dortmund
2
Jadon Sancho has thrived in Germany with Borussia Dortmund

Southgate, who was speaking from talkSPORT’s new studios, believes a move overseas can aid a players’ development.

He said: “I think it’s positive. I’ve looked at young players coming to England before and seen how quickly they’ve matured because they’ve had to fend for themselves and learn the language.

"There’s a different football culture to adapt to. I don’t see any negative to players going abroad.

“Jadon took a very brave decision at a young age and he’s benefited but not everybody has.”

 Gareth Southgate was talking to talkSPORT on Thursday
2
Gareth Southgate was talking to talkSPORT on Thursday

Southgate later commented that if players decide to go abroad in order to get regular football, it does not guarantee them automatic selection to the national team.

“It’s not as simple as go to Germany and you will get in the team and play,” he added.

“You still have to be good enough and earn that opportunity.

"It’s good that English players are now looking at those opportunities.

“In the past we have been reluctant travellers and I think young people in our country and now more than happy to go and live abroad.

“Football-wise it will help us improve as well.”

Topics