Ahead of their huge Euro 2024 semi-final clash against The Netherlands tonight, check out what England players Kobbie Mainoo, Jordan Pickford and Luke Shaw are listening to to get in the right mindset, with the three having selected their prematch playlists as part of Apple Music’s 'The Warm-Up’ series.
It’s a familiar sight to see players arriving at a stadium ahead of a match with earphones plugged in as they get into the zone…but what are they listening to? Well, wonder no more, as with the help of Apple Music, we’ve got three England players’ playlists for you to have a pick through. Kobbie Mainoo, Jordan Pickford and Luke Shaw have all made their selections, and it’s an eclectic list, giving insight into what they’re listening to during their EURO’s journey.
KOBBIE MAINOO
First up, Kobbie Mainoo has burst on to the scene for England. Six months ago, he would not have been in anyones squad list for the tournament, and yet now he’s likely to be in the starting lineup for the semi-final against The Netherlands.
“Music helps me get in the right frame of mind,” Mainoo said to Apple Music. “I like to be relaxed before a game. I listen to music in the car and in the changing room—rap/melodic rap. ‘Gold Roses’, Rick Ross; ‘Catch the Sun’, Lil Baby; ‘Weekends in the Perry’s’, Benny the Butcher…I like the vibe they set. Chill songs.”
JORDAN PICKFORD
Jordan Pickford has already performed heroics for England at Euro 24, making the crucial save in the penalty shootout against Switzerland. He's been a mainstay in between the sticks for the Three Lions for years now, and his mentality is key. He comes across as quite the character, both on and off the pitch, and as you can imagine, his playlist reflects this.
His playlist is predictably entertaining, with Arctic Monkeys, Elvis Presley, Gala, Oasis and Queen just some of his selections. He also gave some reasoning behind his selections:
Ultrabeat, “Pretty Green Eyes”
“I’m good friends with Ian Redman, who is in Ultrabeat, and I’ve always loved this song. He actually came and DJed at my wedding.”
Armand Van Helden, “My My My”
“This song reminds me of my brother. It’s his favourite of all time. Every time I hear it anywhere, I always give him a ring.”
Elton John, “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues”
“I had to put this in; it’s a great song but also from one of my favourite shows, Max and Paddy’s Road to Nowhere. The scene gets me every time when Paddy comes in with the harmonica.”
James, “Sit Down”
“This takes me back to my cousin’s house when we were little. Playing pool, we used to sing this song when someone got knocked out playing killer.”
Neil Diamond, “Sweet Caroline”
“It just brings back memories of the Euros [in 2021] and the whole crowd singing the song with us when we got to the final. Wow.”
Gigi D’Agostino, “L’Amour Toujours”
“My favourite stadium track. Gets me in the zone and brings back memories of growing up.”
Ed Sheeran, “Perfect”
“My wedding song with Megan, this was our first dance. If I don’t put this in, I’ll be in the bad books.”
LUKE SHAW
A lot of eyebrows were raised when Luke Shaw was included in the England squad, with the left back having not played a competitive match since February. But he will have gone some way to convincing the doubters with his cameo appearance against the Swiss, bringing natural balance to England's left flank. He's obviously spent a lot of time on the treatment table, and music has played a big part in his recovery.
For Shaw’s playlist, it’s a rich mix of hip-hop, Afro-house, reggaeton, melodic house, dancehall and more that helps get him fit and focused for kick-off.
Following on from the England players, you can check out Leo Messi's playlist here.
Head to Apple Music for more curated playlists.
