The Three Lions put in another flat performance as they were held to a 0-0 draw against Slovenia in their final group game on Tuesday (25.06.24) and Southgate says that the players are being affected by the negative supporter reaction after empty cups were thrown at the coach after the game.

The England boss said: "I'm not going to back away from it. The most important thing is the supporters stay with the team.

"I understand the narrative towards me and that's better for the team than it being towards them.

"But it is creating an unusual environment to operate in. I've not seen any other team qualify and receive similar. I understand it, I'm not going to back away from it, but I'm very proud of the players for how they're operating within it."

Southgate has been credited for restoring a sense of fun to the England team during his time in charge and is hoping that it doesn't dissipate at the tournament.

He said: "I've lived in this environment for 20 years as a player and coach. We've got to keep ourselves on track and make sure the dressing room is tight.

"We have made England over the last three or four years fun again. I think it has been enjoyable for the players and we have got to be very, very careful that it stays that way."

England have put in disappointing performance in the group stages but Southgate insists that "things are starting to come together" for his team as they head into the last 16.

The coach told ITV Sport: "We have created some good openings and, at the moment, it is hard work for us.

"We are not quite getting that break in front of goal. I think the players who came on did well. I understand the reactions but it is a tough environment."