Sir, – Members of the England soccer team have been rightly criticised for removing their runner-up medals immediately after being presented with them and for showing an unsporting and disrespectful attitude to the game.
It has been cited as a poor example to youngsters watching them.
Members of the England rugby team did exactly the same after their defeat to South Africa in the final of the World Cup in 2019.
One team has to lose, so why not accept defeat more graciously?
After all, there is no shame in reaching the final in such competitions, having overcome so many teams on the way. – Yours, etc,
MARGARET BUTLER,
Booterstown,
Co Dublin.
Sir, – I was appalled at the England soccer team, who advocate giving and receiving “respect” at every turn, yet when they were presented with their medals, immediately took them off in front of the camera.
This is not only an insult to the game but to Fifa and every spectator that was watching, young and old.
England have a long way to go to earn our “respect” off the pitch. – Yours, etc,
DAVID O’HALLORAN,
Howth,
Co Dublin.