Aldi has removed Argentinian wine from its shelves across all UK supermarkets in a patriotic move ahead of England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The match kicks off at 8pm tonight in Atlanta, Georgia.
Aldi's patriotic gesture
The supermarket chain, which has stores in Birmingham and nationwide, pulled bottles of Argentinian Malbec on Wednesday. Signs placed on the empty shelves read: “We have removed our Argentinian Malbec from the shelves in solidarity ahead of the game tomorrow. It’s coming home!”
Shoppers have reacted positively to the move. One customer commented: “Now I respect Aldi even more.” Another added: “Patriotism before Profit. Well done Aldi.” A third said: “An iconic move!”
England team confidence
Ahead of the clash, England defender John Stones spoke to BBC football correspondent John Murray about the team's mindset. Stones said: “Exactly, I think that the messages Gareth [Southgate] started and took through his time as manager were principles and things that were so clear and at the forefront of our heads that we can go out and do those things.
“Tomorrow is another stage for us to go and better ourselves, play even better football. After the last game, we felt we still [have] more to give, which is exciting in my eyes. Go out and be ourselves. Go out there and do everyone proud.
“We have won the last two semi-finals [in the Euros] as a team, it doesn’t matter what competition that’s in. That’s confidence in itself.”
Player fitness update
Head coach Thomas Tuchel also spoke to Murray about player fitness, particularly Declan Rice. Tuchel said: “Declan is in training. I still need to double-check with him how he feels, but he is ready to start, of course, and then we will go from where the match takes him. It’s in more agreeable conditions for him.
“Everyone else is available except for Jordan Henderson and Jarell Quansah.”
