Sunday’s Euro 2024 final could trigger the biggest nationwide party among a generation of success-starved England fans.
But for one Aston Villa fan who called into talkSPORT on Friday, a Three Lions victory on Sunday would mean more than most.
A win for England against Spain would bring an end to 58 years of hurt and provide some much-needed unity across the country.
Many have dreamt it, others have thought about it more times than they care to remember, but few truly know how they will react to England finally lifting a major trophy.
For Danny the Villa fan, though, seeing Gareth Southgate’s men left the European Championship trophy would be extra special after a tough year following a personal tragedy.
He told White and Jordan: “Earlier on this year, I lost a very close friend to suicide.
“Emotion-wise when Villa qualified for the Champions League, that was quite special, but to win the Euros – I’m welling up about it now – it would mean everything.
“And to any chaps out there struggling, just remember there’s always somebody to talk to.
“So, come on Southgate, bring it home and let’s have a party.”
Host Jim White looked visibly moved by the call and replied: “Danny, that was quite a message. We’re sorry for your loss, my friend.”
And, in a poignant moment, Danny beautifully opened up on his own struggles and the part talkSPORT played in helping him through a dark period of his life.
He also sent a ‘hands-off’ message to any clubs interested in signing his beloved club’s star man Ollie Watkins, and urged the striker to repeat his last-minute heroics in the final against Spain.
“Football does mean a lot to a lot of people,” said Danny.
“Last year was one of the hardest times of my life and I started listening to talkSPORT every day at work.
“And you and Simon [Jordan], Benty [Darren Bent], Gabby [Agbonlahor] and a lot of you made me laugh at the lowest point of my life, so thank you.
“You and Simon, I don’t think you know the impact you had. Pretty much because of you two, my kids have got a dad, so thank you.”
Jim was touched by Danny’s brave words and invited him to spend the day at talkSPORT.
White replied: “If you’d like to come and meet me and Simon and come down to London for the day, we would love to host you at talkSPORT. Take me up on that, mate. We’ll organise that.”
“Superb, thank you,” said Danny.
“And come on England, let’s bring it home.
“Ollie Watkins, 90th minute winner again… and to anyone who wants to buy him, he’s not for sale!”
talkSPORT will bring you live commentary of the Euro 2024 final on Sunday as England bid to make history against Spain. Tune in via the website or the app, and follow our live Euro 2024 blog for all the build-up.
News Summary:
- ‘It would mean everything’ – Jim White moved by emotional talkSPORT caller who tells England to win for late friend
- Check all news and articles from the latest Football updates.