MOSCOW, July 2 (Xinhua) -- England coach Gareth Southgate has urged his team to write their own story by beating Colombia and advancing to the quarterfinals.
The Three Lions, which haven't won a game in the knockout stages of a World Cup since 2006, advanced to the round of 16 at this year's tournament as runners up of their group.
"It's 10 years since we won a knockout fixture. For this team, it's a brilliant opportunity to go beyond where more experienced teams have gone before. They're relishing that chance," Southgate told a pre-match press conference here.
"We're viewing the game (against Colombia) as one with an opponent we really respect...These are the games you want to be involved in, and the lads have the chance to write their own stories now," said the coach.
With Argentina, Spain and Portugal out, England have been tipped as one of the favorites, but Southgate said his team would just focus on the upcoming match and nothing beyond that.
"We've been in this position before. Many times over the last however many years. It's pointless us even thinking about what might happen after tomorrow's game. We focus on the game, on our performance, and everything will fall into place from there," he said.
Southgate also confirmed that midfielder Fabian Delph, who has flown home to be with his wife who is going to give birth to his child, will not play Colombia.
"The thought process is some things in life are more important than football. His (Delph's) wife is due to go into labour. This is a big tournament, but family is more important. At times like this, players who are family orientated should be supported by us," he said.
"There's only one day in your life when your children is born. I know my father's generation would view that differently, but you have to be there for your family," he added.
