Despite England's exit from the World Cup, fans are urged to celebrate the team's achievements and the unifying power of its diverse squad. Columnist Brian Reade argues that the players, many of whom are of foreign descent, have made the nation proud and countered toxic anti-immigrant narratives.
England's World Cup Journey: A Glass Half Full
England may have been knocked out on Wednesday, but they still have a chance at third place in tonight's play-off against France. Reade points out that reaching the final weekend is an achievement that eluded Brazil, Germany, and Scotland. He also notes that fans can avoid the overhyped 'it's coming home' chant until the 2028 Euros and sidestep the controversy of what he calls the 'most corrupt World Cup in history' under the Infantino-Trump alliance.
The Immigrant Roots of England's Squad
Of the 26-man England squad, 18 players either were born abroad or have parents from outside Britain. Key examples include Marc Guehi, born in Ivory Coast and moved to England at age one; Trevor Chalobah, born in Sierra Leone and arrived at age two; Harry Kane, with an Irish father; Jude Bellingham, with Irish and Jamaican heritage; and Declan Rice, who previously played for Ireland. Others like Ezri Konsa (Congolese father, Angolan mother), Jarell Quansah (Ghanaian father), and several players with Jamaican, Nigerian, or Ghanaian descent highlight the squad's diversity. All these players chose to represent England over other eligible nations.
Dispelling Anti-Immigrant Myths
Reade emphasizes that these players offer a powerful rebuttal to political narratives blaming immigrants for economic woes. He questions how many of these players would be in England today if policies like Reform UK's Deportation Command or Restore's mass deportations had been in place. He urges reflection on the contributions of foreign-born workers not only in healthcare but also in enriching the nation's talent and culture.
This summer, the squad has united England more effectively than any 'plastic patriot' or political figure, according to Reade. He concludes by thanking the players for their efforts, regardless of tonight's result.
