Steven Gerrard ‘didn’t want England to win’ as Three Lions took on Ukraine
Steven Gerrard admitted that he didn't want to see England beat Ukraine on the back of their Euro 2024 qualifying victory over Italy on Thursday.
The former Three Lions skipper was talking in relation to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has now been going on for more than a year.
With Gareth Southgate's side taking on the Ukrainian side at Wembley in Group C of Euro 2024 qualification, the date was seen as a special one for international relations.
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While on Channel 4 coverage, Gerrard said: "I think this is the first time we want England to not win! Just take a draw and we’ll all be happy."
He added when talking to pundit and Ukraine icon Andriy Shevchenko: "I'd like to say a special mention to yourself and (Oleksandr) Zinchenko, it must be – we can’t begin to imagine.
"But for you guys to step forward and show the leadership that youse have for your country, that, for me, is beyond leadership so all the credit to everyone, to all of you."
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Shevchenko then said in response: "I think today is not just football, it’s a lot more. A lot more meaningful to my country.
"For me to be here today and represent my country, and I want to say thank you to all of England for incredible support, you’ve been very close to us since the war started and this means a lot for me and my country.
"Also I want to say thank you for the Ukrainian soldiers as well for staying on the front line and defending [our country]."
Shevchenko, who managed Ukraine between 2016 and 2021, is best known in England for his time with Chelsea between 2006 and 2009.
He added: "We’re so lucky they sacrifice their lives and the Ukrainian team today, just because there’s so many people on the front lines losing their lives to defend, they stay strong to help freedom to Ukraine.
"We’re mentally very strong and in difficult moments we’re united all together."
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