Gareth Southgate Defends Team Selection Amid Criticism
England's Narrow Victory Over Serbia
Gareth Southgate, hailed as England's most successful manager since Sir Alf Ramsey, has faced criticism following England's 1-0 win against Serbia at Euro 2024. England's manager responded to the critics, highlighting the irony in their comments. As England prepares to face Denmark in Frankfurt this evening, Southgate’s team selection will again be under scrutiny.
Blocking Out Distractions
Southgate emphasized the importance of focusing on the game rather than the criticism. He mentioned, “the world is a happier place without social media,” indicating his strategy to block out distractions and remain focused on the task at hand.
The Criticism
Despite the win, some critics suggested that Southgate's lineup left Harry Kane isolated and failed to utilize Trent Alexander-Arnold and Phil Foden effectively. Southgate found these criticisms ironic, given the previous calls for him to play Alexander-Arnold and allow Kane to drop deep.
“For most of the eight years I have been in charge I have been told that Kane drops too deep. It is slightly ironic that I am now being told not to play Trent when I was told to play Trent for eight years and not to let Harry go deep," Southgate remarked.
Phil Foden’s Role
Phil Foden, usually a left winger at Manchester City, played in the same position against Serbia. Critics argue that Foden, who has recently thrived in a central role for City, was underutilized. Southgate defended Foden's performance, stating that his off-the-ball efforts were crucial for the team’s success.
“I thought Phil did an incredible job for the team. The amount of ground he covered, the angles of pressing, the filling in for people who were further forward. Without his contribution off the ball I do not think we win the game,” Southgate explained.
Harry Kane’s Positioning
Harry Kane, known for his ability to play both as a goalscorer and a playmaker, was asked to stay higher up the pitch against Serbia. Southgate supported Kane's decision to adapt his role based on the game’s dynamics, ensuring others made forward runs in his stead.
“I think that was Harry's interpretation of what was happening on the day. It was not something that we specifically talked about, he has got the freedom to come low and when he does others need to make forward runs," Southgate stated.
Trent Alexander-Arnold in Midfield
Trent Alexander-Arnold played alongside Declan Rice in the midfield, a decision that received mixed reactions. Southgate expressed satisfaction with Alexander-Arnold’s performance and emphasized the need for more forward runs to capitalize on his passing skills.
“I thought positionally he was very sound. Some moments we did not have enough forward runners as well, if you have got a good passer you need people to make those runs in order to hit them,” Southgate noted.
Looking Ahead
As England faces Denmark, Southgate's team selection and tactical decisions will continue to be closely watched. With the pressure mounting, Southgate remains confident in his approach and his players' ability to deliver on the pitch.
