Gareth Southgate fires back at England fans throwing cups at him

While addressing the incident, Southgate said he was happy to embrace the role of England's enemy No. 1 rather than letting his players bear the brunt of fan outrage. However, Southgate turned some heads by suggesting that fans had created an "unusual environment" for him and his players. 

"I understand it," Southgate said of English fans' frustrations. "I'm not going to back away from it. The most important thing here is that the supporters stay with the team. I understand the narrative towards me. That's better for the team than it being towards them. "But, it is creating an unusual environment to opeate in. I've not seen any other team qualify and receive similar [outrage]. So, I understand it. I'm not going to back away from it, but I'm very, very proud for the players for how they're operating within it."

Southgate has dealt with a ton of criticism for his tactical decisions and inability to get the best out of his star-studded roster that includes the Bundesliga's top scorer (Harry Kane), La Liga's reigning player of the season (Jude Bellingham) and the EPL's top player of the season (Phil Foden). Many feel Southgate's attacking formation has rendered all three wingers completely ineffective. 

Some have also blamed Southgate's inability to clean up England's defensive woes. Although the Three Lions conceded only one goal in their three matches, their issues at left-back were exposed versus Denmark and Slovenia. 

In the lead-up to Euro 2024, Kieran Trippier proved a reliable option at the position, but he looked weak when Slovenians attacked down his flank on Tuesday. There was also an incident in the final 20 minutes when Trippier allowed Slovenia a free kick due to a late recovery. 

Southgate's team will face one of the Netherlands, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania or Belgium in the Round of 16 depending on how the group stages conclude on Wednesday.