Social media users have ridiculed Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer following what many described as an uncomfortable video conversation with England's women's football team at their Downing Street celebration.
The Lionesses gathered at No10 on Monday evening to mark their Euros triumph, but the Prime Minister's absence and subsequent remote appearance drew widespread criticism online.
Critics took to social media platforms to mock what they perceived as an awkward interaction between Starmer and the victorious squad.
The Prime Minister joined the celebration via video link while the team enjoyed their reception in the Downing Street garden, prompting numerous negative reactions from viewers who questioned the authenticity of his congratulations.
The Prime Minister had to facetime the Lionesses as he was in Scotland
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During the brief conversation, the Prime Minister offered his congratulations, saying: "Fantastic to see you all and welcome to Downing Street. I just wanted to say a huge congratulations to you and the whole team."
Manager Sarina Wiegman responded to the call with, "Hello Keir, nice to see you" and later remarked "it's lovely here", before expressing gratitude for his support during the tournament. However, the exchange prompted harsh commentary from social media users who found the interaction uncomfortable.
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Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and sports minister Stephanie Peacock hosted the victory reception while Starmer was meeting US President Donald Trump at his Turnberry golf course in Scotland. The Prime Minister travelled to the Scottish venue with his wife Victoria for comprehensive discussions with the American leader.
No 10 had been specially decorated for the champions' visit, featuring St George's flags displayed across windows and celebratory bunting adorning the railings. Despite his physical absence from the festivities, Starmer attempted to participate through a five-minute video call to the team gathered in the Downing Street garden.
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The Lionesses were seen less then enthused as they spoke with the Prime Minister
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One user on X, formerly Twitter, questioned: "Why does Keir have that uncanny valley AI feel in this video? It just gives off such weird vibes man."
Another critic suggested the team "couldn't wait to get you off the phone", whilst a further comment described the entire exchange as feeling "so fake".
With another user saying: "So, cringe"
And third adding: "This does not sound genuine!"
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The Prime Minister's social media post accompanying the video stated: "Back-to-back tournament wins. Inspiring the next generation. History makers. On behalf of the entire nation congratulations Lionesses."
The Lionesses secured their second consecutive European Championship on Sunday following a dramatic penalty shootout victory against Spain in Basel. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with England prevailing 3-1 in the subsequent penalties.
The Lionesses were hosted at Downing Street to celebrate back-to-back Euros victories
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Chloe Kelly converted the winning spot-kick, sparking celebrations that continued into the early hours. The champions received an enthusiastic welcome from supporters when they landed at Southend Airport in Essex on Monday afternoon.
The team's celebrations will continue on Tuesday with an open-top bus parade along The Mall, culminating in a ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. Despite calls from some quarters, the Government has confirmed there will be no Bank Holiday to mark the achievement.