Rishi Sunak jibed after saying England ‘left absolutely nothing out there’

Rishi Sunak has been poked fun at for his commiseration tweet after the England team lost the women’s World Cup final 1-0 to Spain.

In a post on Twitter, now known as X, the British prime minister told the football team: “You left absolutely nothing out there, Lionesses.”

Senior Labour MP Angela Eagle pointed out that he had muddled what was intended to be a supportive comment about Sarina Wiegman’s side’s efforts in the contest.

“I think the phrase is ‘absolutely everything’ PM,” Ms Eagle tweeted.

Broadcaster Jon Sopel, host of The News Agents podcast, also pointed out the error, saying: “Everything, surely!?”

I think the phrase is ‘absolutely everything’ PM https://t.co/hsPRN4kQ4J

— Angela Eagle DBE (@angelaeagle) August 20, 2023

Shelagh Fogarty, a presenter on LBC, joked that the tweet had been “written by a 16-year-old Spad (special adviser)”.

Conservative Party leader Mr Sunak has faced criticism for not travelling to Sydney, Australia, to watch the final in person.

Former England goalkeeper Pauline Cope expressed her disappointment that Mr Sunak had not attended, while also suggesting that Britain's Prince William, who is president of the FA, should have been at Stadium Australia to watch the match.

Cope, who has 60 England caps and played in the 1995 World Cup, told Times Radio: “Let’s be honest, if it was the men’s World Cup, they would all be here.”

Gutted for the team.The @Lionesses can hold their heads high. They worked so hard all tournament & they've inspired countless people across the country & world, particularly young women & girls.The team have done their country proud