Gareth Southgate's England squad have stormed into the Euro 2024 final, ready to lock horns with Spain in a thrilling contest for the coveted title.
In a nail-biting semi-final on July 10, England snatched a last-gasp win over the Netherlands, thanks to Ollie Watkins' stunning late goal, narrowly avoiding extra time. The nation is rallying behind the Three Lions, despite their tepid start, which saw them secure a win against Serbia and draws with Denmark and Slovenia.
The team's momentum built up with a victory over Slovakia and a nail-biting penalty shootout draw against Switzerland, leading to high hopes that skipper Harry Kane will steer England to glory.
But it's not just the on-pitch heroics catching the public's eye the England players' socks are causing quite a stir. Stars like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Conor Gallagher have been spotted sporting hole-ridden socks during matches.
During the clash with the Dutch, all eyes were on Jude Bellingham's notably tattered socks. Confused fans took to social media, with perplexed supporters asking why some players have holes in the back of their socks.
But what's the real deal behind this quirky trend? Is it just a fashion fad?
Actually, there's a savvy reason footballers are snipping holes in their socks - it's all about dodging injuries. Devoted footie enthusiasts will be aware that socks play a role in keeping those leg muscles snug and shin guards firmly in place.
Though they're mighty handy, these socks can also be a bit of a squeeze, potentially hampering blood flow and circulation. Players and experts alike suggest that a few snips in the fabric might just ease up the pressure, thus warding off potential injuries.
Rewinding to 2021, Kyle Walker shed some light on the practice, saying: "The socks were actually too tight so it was causing pressure on my calves.
"It was just to release my calves - or release the tension. I just cut holes in them and all of a sudden I had a few alright games, and I was like, 'Ok, I'm keeping this now!"
Dr Stefaan Vossen, the brains behind Core Clinics, delved into the science of it all in a chat with The Mirror. He pointed out that since players don fresh socks each match, the brand-new feel can lead to a tighter squeeze, especially when they haven't been broken in.
He elaborated: "As the match goes on, footballers' calves will swell as they fill with blood due to exertion. This can cause the socks to feel tight.
"The last thing players want to do is restrict blood supply in their legs, so over-tight socks could be a real issue. On the other hand, a level of compression can improve performance by reducing muscle fatigue."
Thus, some athletes may snip holes in areas that feel constricted or have caused them issues in past matches. Dr Vossen also highlighted the mental advantages, stating: "Footballers have extensive pre-match preparation rituals and whenever they find something that they feel improves their performance they'll want to repeat this."
Dr Vossen added: "The compression effect of socks can reduce fatigue during extended exercise and reduce post-exercise swelling. However, a badly fitted or over tight sock can reduce oxygen supply to the muscle, cause irritation during play, and increase the risk of thrombosis (the formation of a blood clot - a medical emergency).
"By customising the sock with strategically placed holes footballers can achieve the ideal level of compression for their thighs throughout the match."
The England players will be hoping it can help lead them to glory at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.