This could be a recruitment advertisement for any forward-thinking organisation, although it’s what I saw played out at Wembley yesterday evening.  I can’t write knowledgeably about the offside rule and I’m usually looking in the wrong direction when the goals are scored, but this was a TV triumph.  I recognise that football divides as much as it conquers although who could resist the sheer delight of young players who’ve worked so hard at honing their skills?  These are individuals who collaborate to create team success.

I’m a bit of a fair-weather spectator these days, I don’t go to football matches anymore and I get bored easily during Match of the Day.  Long gone are the days of walking to the Crystal Palace ground with my friend Deborah and her dad, let alone skipping (claret and blue scarves tied together) in Croydon High Street when the team made it to the first division (no premiership in those days).  I still went to a few matches in my early twenties, when I used my younger brother as the excuse, although the kudos of being at primary school with one of the players faded once he went to play in Florida with the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

I hope that the England team is successful on Sunday as they’ve bought such cheer to so many in the wake of the pandemic.  I was just 11 when England won the World Cup and that really was a Saturday afternoon to remember.  We were travelling back from Guide camp in the back of a removal lorry piled high with tents and other camping stuff.  Every time we went through a town or village, we waved flags from the back of the open lorry.  It was fun and we were safe, but I’m happier in the knowledge that H&S wouldn’t allow that now!

Gareth Southgate may have missed a penalty and been an average team manager (what do I know) although he’s certainly found his ideal opportunity to shine.  I don’t need to see his CV to recognise that he’s great at his job, he demonstrates that every single time he’s on TV.  Yes, Gareth’s is the best kind of video CV possible.  He’s measured, he’s passionate and his influence on the team is obvious.  He doesn’t always select players from the glitzy, high profile clubs although it’s clear that he recognises talent and a good attitude.  And he’s unswerving in his support for the choices he makes.

If only there were more leaders like Gareth Southgate; managers who recognise talented individuals with a fabulous attitude and work with them to develop their skills.  We all know that there’s never been such a successful England team.  The readymade article simply didn’t exist.  Gareth has shown us how to employ patience, encourage confidence and reward learning.  He’s created a team which continues to grow and flourish.  Yes, this is most definitely a lesson in trust and belief for all those risk adverse leaders who continue to search for the finished article (the unicorn).  Go on, seek out some raw talent and passion I dare you.  After all I’m sure Gareth Southgate will be there to support you in spirit.

Football may not be your thing but who doesn’t like to see a team having fun and doing what they do best?  They support and encourage each other, and this team has taught us as much about individual respect as it has about passion.  I am confident that Gareth Southgate will get the accolade he deserves whatever the score on Sunday.  And I hope that the team gets to celebrate success centre stage at one of the most prestigious sporting venues, even if it is to the sounds of 1969 and Sweet Caroline.

If you fancy a conversation about the benefits of hiring people with the right attitude and values, and helping them to develop their skills, Let’s Talk.