England’s assistant manager Steve Holland has lavished praise on Wolves star Conor Coady.
The Molineux captain remains on duty with England, who tonight face Denmark in the other semi-final of Euro 2020.
It is the biggest game since the 2018 World Cup semi-final defeat to Croatia, and a place against Italy in the final awaits.
Coady is yet to play for the Three Lions at the tournament.
He has been on the bench every game, with John Stones, Harry Maguire and Tyrone Mings ahead of him in the pecking order.
That does not mean Coady hasn’t had any influence though, and Holland has made sure to compliment the 28-year-old.
He told BBC Football Daily (via Express & Star): “My player of the tournament so far is Conor Coady, I would say.
“He’s not got on the pitch yet, but on the training pitch he gives everything.
“In the dressing room before the game, he speaks like he’s captain despite the fact he’s not been on the pitch yet. That’s incredibly difficult to do.”
Reason for Coady inclusion clear
This is yet more evidence that there are few better leaders around than Coady.
At this point so many people have praised Coady’s leadership qualities.
It really is such an important thing, and to hear he is assuming responsibility within the national team, despite not playing, is fantastic.
Some knocked Gareth Southgate for picking Coady for his squad.
Many wanted Ben Godfrey, Michael Keane or Ezri Konsa instead.
Holland’s comments only validate Southgate’s decision.