James Graham, writer of 'Dear England,' joins Joe Devine to discuss the cultural revolution under Gareth Southgate. They explore the transformation of the England squad, the role of football in shaping national identity, and the impact of a play about Gareth Southgate on historical perception.
Gareth Southgate's leadership transformed the character of the England squad and the sport, going beyond results.
The England manager plays a unique role in telling the nation's story through football, engaging and uniting people.
Harry Kane's relatable and introverted leadership embodies the cultural revolution of the England team.
Deep dives
The Cultural Revolution under Gareth Southgate
The podcast episode discusses the Cultural Revolution that took place under Gareth Southgate's leadership of the England football team. The speaker explores how Southgate, as the manager, went beyond just focusing on the team's performance and results. He aimed to change the character of the team and the sport itself, addressing questions about identity, national story, and the psychology of the players. The speaker believes that Southgate's impact goes beyond the game and highlights his role in shaping the relationship between the England team and the fans, as well as the nation's perception of itself. The podcast delves into the milestones of this Cultural Revolution, including Southgate's appointment as a surprising choice, the introspective work on understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the English national team, and the efforts to address fear and create a supportive team environment. It also explores the significance of embracing national symbols and history, and the challenges of navigating the complexities of national identity and politics in relation to the England flag. The speaker argues that Southgate's influence on the team's culture and character has been remarkable and offers a unique perspective on the role of an England manager in shaping the nation's story.
The Role of the England Manager
The podcast emphasizes the significant influence the England manager has on the culture of the entire country. It compares the impact of the England manager to politicians and other public figures, highlighting how the manager is often seen as a representative of values and a unifying force for the nation. The speaker suggests that the England manager plays a unique role in telling the nation's story through the lens of football, and with Gareth Southgate as an example, the manager's storytelling ability can engage and unite people. The podcast discusses the challenges faced by the England manager, who must navigate political tensions and differing ideologies among fans, as well as the pressure to achieve sporting success. It also explores the power of football as a tool for politics and nation-building, offering reflections on the way the England team's cultural revolution under Southgate has resonated with people and helped shape the national narrative.
Exploring the Character of Harry Kane
The podcast explores the character of Harry Kane and his significance as a leader in the England team. It highlights how Kane embodies the shift in character under Gareth Southgate's leadership, compared to previous England captains like David Beckham. The speaker discusses Kane's down-to-earth nature and his role as a relatable and introverted figure, challenging traditional norms of masculinity and offering a different kind of leadership. The podcast reflects on how Kane's character aligns with the cultural revolution of the England team and how his presence on the pitch and off it contributes to the broader story and values represented by the team.
Football as a Storytelling Device
The podcast delves into the power of football as a storytelling device and its ability to reflect and shape national identity. It discusses how the play 'Dear England' captures the storytelling elements of international football tournaments and their role in defining what it means to belong to a nation. The speaker emphasizes that our understanding of national identity is constructed through the stories we tell, and football provides a platform to engage in those narratives. The podcast explores the challenges of translating football stories onto the stage, capturing the tension and drama of key moments, such as penalty shootouts. By bringing football-related themes and stories into a theatrical context, the podcast suggests that the play 'Dear England' offers a unique exploration of identity, history, and national pride.
The Complexity of Gareth Southgate's Story
The podcast acknowledges the complexity of Gareth Southgate's story, considering both the fictional character portrayed in 'Dear England' and the real-life individual. It points out that the play reflects James Graham's interpretation and portrayal of Southgate, influenced by his own perspectives and the themes he finds most romantic. The speaker reflects on the dynamic between the fictional and real Southgate, as well as the impact the play has on the cultural memory of the real person. Furthermore, the podcast considers the ongoing nature of Southgate's story and how his future actions and statements may retroactively influence our view of his character. It highlights the significance of historical memory and storytelling in shaping the perception of individuals and events.
