Gareth Southgate says his England stars have a 'very special opportunity' to make the country happy against Denmark as they bid to reach a first major final in 55 YEARS - and jokes young fans will 'think it's always like this!'

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Gareth Southgate says his England team have a 'very special opportunity' to make the country happy on Wednesday night.

Victory against Denmark would see England reach the final of a major tournament for the first time since winning the 1966 World Cup.

They return to Wembley — the site of England's last semi-final appearance at the European Championship 25 years ago, when Southgate was involved as a player.

Gareth Southgate is looking to steer England to a first final at a major tournament since 1966

The England boss said his players have a 'special chance' to make the country happy

'England matches bring families and communities together,' Southgate told the BBC. 

'The opportunity to bring happiness and create brilliant nights for our fans, our nation, is a very special one that you have when you play with England. They are matches that you remember where you were.' 

Asked what it would mean to him to reach the final, Southgate replied: 'It's what it means to the country really.

He said his team can give England fans a moment to cherish by beating Denmark at Wembley

'If you're a coach it's a bit like being a parent — you've gone past the moment when it's about you and it's about what you pass on to others.

'Some of the nicest messages you get are that people appreciate how the players have been — that they feel they can connect with them — they should be very proud of that.

'It's also lovely that certain generations of fans are seeing England for the first time and these are their formative memories. Bless them, they think it's "always like this!"'