Euro 2024 Ed Sheeran plays private gig for England team

England’s preparations for Saturday’s Euro 2024 quarterfinal against Switzerland featured a private concert from singer Ed Sheeran at the team’s base in Blankenhain.

Gareth Southgate’s squad underwent a light recovery session on Monday, a day after their dramatic extra-time round-of-16 win over Slovakia in which Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane scored to give England a 2-1 victory.

Sheeran was watching on from the stands in Gelsenkirchen and travelled to the Spa & GolfResort Weimarer Land where England are staying to perform in front of players and staff later on Monday.

Southgate has been keen to ensure the camp remains a mixture of business and pleasure, allowing the players’ families in on occasion after matches during the group stage.

Sheeran also performed for England at St George’s Park during the last Euros while Robbie Williams visited the squad at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Meanwhile, speaking on Monday, England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford said Luke Shaw is ready to be called upon if needed.

Shaw has not made an appearance at Euro 2024 yet due to injury with Kieran Trippier deputising at left-back.

“He was ready to come on [against Slovakia], but I’m not the manager,” Pickford said. “He’s ready. Luke says he’s ready.”