GRAEME SOUNESS hailed the current crop of England stars the real Golden Generation – in front of a gutted Joe Cole.
The awkward conversation happened during Channel 4’s coverage of the Three Lions’ win over old enemy Scotland on Tuesday.
C4 SportJoe Cole’s jaw dropped at Graeme Souness’ Golden Generation claim[/caption]
Souness – who was returning to the nation’s TV screens after leaving Sky Sports at the end of last season – was massively impressed by Gareth Southgate’s side.
Discussing England‘s prospects at next summer’s Euros, Souness was bullish.
He said: “This is the Golden Generation,” explained the Liverpool legend.
“Forget with Frank (Lampard) and Steven Gerrard and Paul Scholes. They have got strength in depth.”
And viewers couldn’t help but feel awkward with Cole sitting next to the Liverpool and Scotland legend.
Cole was part of England’s so-called Golden Generation from the start of the century which, of course, failed to land any silverware.
And, although he looked shocked at first, Cole could later be seen nodding his head as Souness continued.
The former England midfielder also admitted “I agree” during the debate.
Channel 4Cole was taken aback when Souness mentioned the Golden Generation[/caption]
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Souness, Cole and Jill Scott had been left impressed by what they had seen from the Three Lions at Hampden Park.
Two goals in three minutes from Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham established a two-goal lead before half-time.
Harry Kane then sealed a 3-1 victory after Harry Maguire’s own goal.
England return to Euro 2024 qualifying against Italy next month, before concluding their campaign against Malta and North Macedonia in November.
Four points from those matches will be enough to confirm their place at the tournament in Germany next summer.
Southgate will be hoping his side can go one further than their shootout defeat to Italy in the final in 2021.