By Theodore Gardener
Keen to prove the doubters and critics wrong, England face off against Slovenia at the RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne at 8pm (UK time) tonight.
It is the final group game of England’s Euro 2024 campaign. Their qualification was confirmed last night as Albania fell victims to a 1-0 loss from Group B winners – Spain.
The game holds a different meaning for Southgate’s men. An opportunity to guarantee a top-placed finish in their group, and an opportunity to get the nation back onside after a poor showing against Denmark as they stumbled to a 1-1 draw.
Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer have come under criticism recently for their response to the draw, with Harry Kane saying: “All I would say is remember what it is like to wear the shirt and that their words are listened to. I am sure they want us to win a major tournament and being as helpful as they can and building the lads up with confidence would be a much better way of going about it.”
Tonight’s match not only gives England a chance to hit back at the criticism on the pitch, but also to kick start the rest of their campaign with a resolute victory.
It is familiar terrain for England as they have found themselves in the same position in their last two major tournaments – draws in their middle group game against Scotland and the USA followed by a statement victory against Czech Republic and Wales in the final group game. They will be hoping to emulate the same response tonight.
Southgate is expected to largely stick with the same line-up as was seen in the first two games. Reportedly, Premier League Player of the Season Phil Foden will keep his place in the side amidst criticism. The only change expected to be seen tonight is the dropping of Trent Alexander-Arnold, replacing him with the more midfield-accustomed Conor Gallagher.