Our identity to carry on, says England coach after attacks

England manager Gareth Southgate said that there was no question Wednesday's game against Germany would be called off after the London "terrorist" attack as it's "part of our identity that we carry on in moments like this".

Gareth Southgate felt it was part of his team’s identity as a nation to carry on in moments like this

England manager Gareth Southgate said that there was no question Wednesday's game against Germany would be called off after the London "terrorist" attack as it's "part of our identity that we carry on in moments like this".

Three people were killed and 20 injured in the attack outside the British parliament when a man drove into pedestrians, then stabbed a police officer before being shot dead.

"Obviously our first thoughts are with the families of those who have lost their lives or been injured," Southgate told English broadcaster ITV from Dortmund where the friendly international was taking place.

"It puts football into perspective. We are conscious that part of our identity as a nation is that we carry on in moments like this."

British police said it was treating the London attack "as a terrorist incident".

The Football Association's chairman Greg Clarke said a full tribute would be paid to the victims before Sunday's 2018 World Cup qualifier against Lithuania at London's Wembley.

"Our thoughts are with all of those who have been affected by this terrible incident," said Clarke in a statement.

"We will be recognising the bravery of the security services and all those involved at the England v Lithuania match on Sunday."

Southgate said the team backed the FA's decision.

"We have left everything else to our hierarchy," said the England manager.

"In terms of any tribute, we felt that in London on Sunday was the right thing to do."

In support for their opponents, the German Football Association (DFB) tweeted: "Dear english friends, we are with you in our thoughts. #London #DieMannschaft @England."