Explained: How Gareth Southgate is helping ensure England avoid further penalty heartache in Euro 2024 last-16 clash against Slovakia

England came close to their first men's international title since 1966 when they took on the Azzurri in the shootout. However, misses from Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka meant that the Three Lions faltered yet again in a major tournament.

As per The Daily Mail, England players have been undertaking extra sessions to focus on penalty-taking as Southgate wants all the players to be properly prepared in case there is a shootout in the current tournament. Even defenders like Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi are being put to the test.

Speaking to the media, Konsa said: "We've been practising it after training, a few players go off and practice penalties. Look, we're not thinking about going to penalties on Sunday, but if it comes to it, we'll be well prepared."

Guehi added: "We’ve been doing a lot of work. The work’s been going really well across the team on penalties. It’s important to make sure we’re ready."

Southgate is no stranger to heartbreak in shootouts as he missed a crucial penalty for England against Germany in the semi-final of the Euro 1996. Hence, he has tried to make sure all his players are confident from 12 yards.

The Three Lions will take on Slovakia in the round of 16 of Euro 2024 on June 30 as they look to regain some form and make their way to the quarter-finals.