England’s Struggles Continue at Euro 2024 Despite Favourites Tag

England‘s campaign at Euro 2024 is yet to hit its peak despite being touted as pre-tournament favorites. In their recent match against Denmark, the Three Lions fell short of expectations as they failed to capitalize on an early lead, ultimately settling for a draw.

Gareth Southgate, the England manager, made crucial midfield changes during the game, highlighting the team’s struggles in finding a suitable replacement for the absent Kalvin Phillips. The midfield, according to Southgate, is not operating at its best and lacks the desired fluidity.

With England at the top of Group C, their final match against Slovenia looms large. The pressure on Southgate to make tactical and personnel adjustments is mounting, especially after another match where England failed to maintain their lead and allowed the opposition back into the game.

In response to queries about England’s defensive approach post-scoring, Southgate denied instructing the team to sit back but acknowledged the need for better pressure on opponents. Ball retention, he noted, has been a significant concern contributing to their struggles.

Southgate pointed out the absence of Luke Shaw, emphasizing the team’s imbalance without their top left-back. The ongoing search for a midfield solution was underscored by Southgate, who lamented the challenges in finding a player of Phillips’ caliber.

The experiment with playing Alexander-Arnold in midfield was acknowledged as a work in progress by Southgate, who highlighted the absence of a natural replacement for Phillips. Criticism from pundits like Gary Neville regarding Declan Rice’s suitability for the holding role further complicates England’s midfield issues.

As England aims to secure top spot in the group and avoid a tricky last-16 clash, Southgate faces mounting scrutiny to address the team’s performance inconsistencies and find effective solutions moving forward.