When Stephen Nolan dons an England kit for his radio show today, the broadcaster knows he will be in for a tough time from many listeners.
nd after the team’s 4-0 drubbing of Ukraine in Rome on Saturday to take them into their second semi-final in a row at a major tournament, no doubt some will accuse him of bandwagon jumping.
But support from Nolan – who said he considers himself both British and Irish – for England leaves him far from isolated in Northern Ireland.
England is the only team from these islands left in the Euros, and – perhaps more now than in the past – one that managed to win over new fans.
Football inspires great passion, but there’s no need for unbridled nationalism to prevent anyone supporting their neighbour. With little to cheer for in recent months, Gareth Southgate’s men have given many in Northern Ireland something to get behind. The ability of sport to unite shouldn’t be forgotten — even if we might never hear the end of it!