Gareth Southgate previews England's clash with Ukraine
England saw their perfect record in Euro 2024 qualifying brought to a disappointing end after being held to a 1-1 draw by Ukraine at the Stadion Miejski Wroclaw in Poland. Gareth Southgate sprung a surprise with some interesting selections and his team looked somewhat disjointed, conceding the opener to Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko before Kyle Walker levelled before the break to salvage a point. It leaves the Three Lions top of the group by six points, but they have played three more games than Italy and the performance offered some worrying signs for Southgate. Express Sport runs the rule over how England players fared on Saturday afternoon.
Jordan Pickford – 6
Aside from rushing off his line to deny Mykhaylo Mudryk a chance to bear down on goal, the Everton stopper had little to do other than pick the ball out of his net from Zinchenko’s strike.
Kyle Walker – 7
He may be pushing 33 but the right-back still possesses the quick burst of pace and incredible energy that allows him to sneak in behind. Showed a fantastic touch and cool finish to score his first England goal on his 77th cap.
Harry Maguire – 5
Some would question why Maguire is in the side given his limited role at Manchester United and the centre-back looked short of confidence, as well as being a touch sloppy in his some of his challenges. Booked.
Marc Guehi – 6
A surprise name on the teamsheet and Guehi was not overawed by the occasion on his fifth cap, he will be disappointed not to have kept a clean sheet.
READ MORE England team news vs Ukraine as Gareth Southgate has dream midfield trio[LATEST]
Ben Chilwell – 5
Failed to track his runner on several occasions, which is out of character for the Chelsea man, and that played a part in Ukraine’s opener. A disappointing display by his standards.
Jordan Henderson – 5
Sluggish off the ball, sloppy on it. Critics had made clear their opposition to Henderson being called up to the squad after his controversial move to Saudi Arabia and, in addition to the moral issues, questions must be asked about his capability at this level at the age of 33.
Declan Rice – 6
Sitting in the holding role, Rice looked overwhelmed in trying to contain the Ukraine midfield three and lacked support from Henderson. For a £105million player, though, more will be expected of him in future England matches.
Jude Bellingham – 8
A delight to watch at times. His neat footwork and touches helped England create chances and he was the nucleus of their best chances, and would have had an assist if Saka’s effort went in. A class act.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
DON’T MISS
Levi Colwill recalls special Wembley visit as he names toughest Prem striker[LATEST]
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has stick ready to whack Bukayo Saka with[INSIGHT]
Arsenal supporters fume at Gareth Southgate over Bukayo Saka treatment[NEWS]
James Maddison – 5
Few would deny he had earned a start considering his impressive form since joining Tottenham, but it’s unclear what his role is under Southgate. On the left side of the three up front, he looked uncomfortable and was hooked for Foden. Booked.
Harry Kane – 6
Got his assist with a wonderful 40-yard pinpoint pass for Walker to run onto to get his side level. But as a goal threat, Kane offered little after being allowed to roam into deeper areas, which is hardly what England want from their No 9.
Bukayo Saka – 6
As always, his direct running and creativity from the right proved to be England’s main threat. Not quite as devastating in the final third as he was in the first Ukraine game back in March, but unlucky to smash the crossbar on the hour mark with a trademark curler.
- From the official England merchandise store and modelled on what the team wears on the pitch for home games.
- Nike Dri-FIT technology is sweat-wicking to stay dry and comfortable.
- Adult sizes ranging S – XXL.
- 100% polyester.
- Machine Washable.
- Free UK delivery available with code ENGWEMBLEY.
- From the official England merchandise store and modelled on what the team wears for on the pitch for away games.
- Nike Dri-FIT technology is sweat-wicking to stay dry and comfortable.
- Adult sizes ranging S – XXL.
- 100% polyester.
- Machine Washable.
- Free UK delivery available with code ENGWEMBLEY.
- From the official England merchandise store and modelled on what the team wears for on the pitch for home games.
- Nike Dri-FIT technology is sweat-wicking to stay dry and comfortable.
- Kids sizes ranging XS – XL.
- 100% polyester.
- Machine Washable.
- Free UK delivery available with code ENGWEMBLEY.
- Customisable with player name and number or choice of text (£74.95)
- From the official England merchandise store and modelled on what the team wears for on the pitch for away games
- Nike Dri-FIT technology is sweat-wicking to stay dry and comfortable.
- Kids sizes ranging XS – XL.
- 100% polyester.
- Machine Washable.
- Free UK delivery available with code ENGWEMBLEY.
- Customisable with player name and number or choice of text (£74.95)
Substitutes
Marcus Rashford (on 65′ for Bellingham) – 6
Full of running but unable to find the winner from the bench. Why didn’t he start?
Phil Foden (on 66′ for Maddison) – 5
In the No 10 role, Foden was rarely involved.
Conor Gallagher (on 86′ for Saka) – N/A
Source: Read Full Article
