I just don’t care about Euro 2020, please don’t boot me out of England

I do want England to win - in theory - but my investment level would be ambitiously described as moderate.

As a dual citizen who grew up in Australia, I feel a bit ashamed to confess this.

My many years-in-the-making British citizenship ceremony at Trowbridge County Hall in March 2020 talked a lot about contributing to the community through volunteering and the like.

But my practical experience of what it means to be English is just as much about loving an orderly queue, and never committing the grave offence of making a cup of tea without first offering a round.

Also on this list is painting a red cross on my face and singing ‘It’s coming home’ as soon as England scores its first goal in a cup competition.

READ MORE: A belated introduction from this paper’s new content editor  

I have at times got into the spirit. I do enjoy watching an interesting game with company.

Long ago back when my husband and I were still trying to impress each other, I had a go at following football properly by signing on as a Liverpool fan. I had a big soft spot for Steven Gerrard so that was easy enough.

Then Luis Suarez started going around biting everyone and Gerrard had the audacity to retire, so I lost the magic and that was that.

I do understand the theoretical appeal of football - the sense of community spirit and friendly competition.

But when it comes down to it, it’s just not a priority for me, especially when I’m very busy as I have been.

I never followed sport as an Australian - so why should I feel pressure to as a Brit? Can I not choose what makes me feel patriotic?

Elise Britten, the new Audience and Content Editor of this paper

As an Australian, I’m proud of our vast diverse natural environments, our laid back, open attitude and egalitarian values.

Now, as a Brit, I’m proud of our universal healthcare, preservation of history, strong community involvement, and the Great British countryside.

I love our cheeky ability to adopt food or customs from every culture in the world and call it our own and the fabulous archaic words and names we hold onto.

Footballers paid millions to kick a ball about and - in some cases - behave far below what I would expect for someone in such a privileged position - are unlikely to make it high on my list.

They will be far behind the nurses, dedicated local councillors, inspiring school teachers and all the others who are the building blocks of Britain.

I’m sure I’m not the only one, so now I’m openly admitting it. I really don’t care that much about the football.

Ok, I’m done, now you can boot me out.