England’s Euro 2020 final defeat by Italy was “incredibly painful” but the players gave “everything they possibly could”, said manager Gareth Southgate.
The Three Lions, appearing in their first major men’s final for 55 years, were agonisingly beaten on penalties following a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes.
“We are all together. They have given the country some unbelievable memories,” Southgate said on BBC One.
Captain Harry Kane said defeat would “hurt for the rest of our careers”.
“We should be extremely proud as a group of what we have achieved,” the Tottenham striker added.
“I couldn’t have given more, the boys couldn’t have given more.
“Penalties is the worst feeling in the world when you lose. It wasn’t our night but it’s been a fantastic tournament and we should hold our heads high.
“It’s going to hurt for a while, but we’re on the right track and we’re building and hopefully we can progress from this next year.”
