Danny Rose says he used to hate playing against one former Southampton player, who’s set to star at Euro 2024 this summer.
Southampton have a few current and former players featuring in Euro 2024 this summer, with most of them in action during Friday’s opener between Germany and Scotland.
Host nation Germany thumped the Scots 5-1 in what was an entertaining opening fixture of the tournament.
Former Southampton man Angus Gunn started in goal for Scotland and has been backed to shine by England legend Wayne Rooney.
Scotland have also called up departing Southampton midfielder Stuart Armstrong for the tournament, with Che Adams leading the line against Germany.
Jan Bednarek will also feature in the Euros this summer, having been called up by Poland following another impressive season with the Saints.
Elsewhere, former Southampton favourite Dusan Tadic will captain Serbia when they face England on Sunday.
Danny Rose hated playing against Dusan Tadic for Southampton
Tadic, now 35, arrived at Southampton from FC Twente in 2014, becoming former manager Ronald Koeman’s first signing as Saints boss.
In four years at St Mary’s, Tadic made 162 total appearances, scoring 24 goals and assisting 32, before leaving for Ajax in 2018 where he went on to score 105 goals in 241 appearances.
Now at Fenerbahce, Tadic will add to his 108 caps for Serbia in Germany this summer, and he’ll look to add to his 23 goals too.
Speaking on Euro Thrash ahead of England vs Serbia on Sunday, former Spurs man Danny Rose recalled his playing days against Tadic, saying “He is not (that quick), no, but he is as strong as anything.
“I wasn’t keen on playing against wingers who could cut in because it was easier once they got half a yard and one who has got a left foot like him, putting the ball in the box and once he goes in the box, it’s all straightaway it’s my fault.
“He has got a great left foot and he is so strong.”
Southampton eyes on Euro 2024
Southampton fans and officials will surely keep a close eye on the Euro tournament this summer, with major tournaments a great time to scout new players.
Russell Martin needs new players arriving this summer and if he can get one or two who impress at the Euros, and carry that form into the 2024/25 season, it could make their battle against relegation next season a whole lot easier.
Saints fans will also be keen to see how former player Tadic fares against England. He’s enjoyed an illustrious career but at 35 years old, this may be his final major tournament with Serbia.
Given his experience and his strength on the ball, which Rose points out, he could be a player who ties others into the game, and really causes England some issues.
Serbia and England meet at the Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday, with kick off at 8pm.