Shot in the dark
England are averaging 8.9 shots per game at the UEFA EURO under Gareth Southgate (80 in 9 games).
Going into MD3, that is the lowest shots per game any nation has had under a manager to take charge of them in more than five matches at the European Championship on record (since 1980).
Pick of the bunch
A moment of concern for England fans as goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has gingerly felt his fingers following his warm-up.
The Three Lions No.1 went through his own pre-match routine that saw him catch several half-volleys from close range.
However, after his last one, Pickford winced as he walked away from his net and peeled off his glove.
The Everton star then grimaced as he flexed out his fingers – he suffered a minor blow to his shoulder in training on Monday.
Pickford did use that same hand to fist-bump with England’s goalkeeping coach Martyn Margetson so hopefully, it was nothing more than a fleeting issue.
Mag-nificant
Slovenia fans are having fun at England’s expense ahead of kick-off, with one claiming football will never come home for the Three Lions.
Another said Gareth Southgate’s side have lost their fear factor – cause Manchester United’s Harry Maguire is missing at the back!
Rice a ‘victim’ of Southgate’s tactics
Declan Rice looks unrecognisable in an England shirt at Euro 2024 – and Gareth Southgate’s tactics are to blame.
That is the view of Emmanuel Petit, who told talkSPORT: “I think even for Declan Rice, I don’t recognise him. The way he was marvellous with Arsenal for the last season, he’s been magnificent. He’s been playing as a leader.
“He was a masterclass all the time on the pitch, taking responsibility. I saw him yesterday, dropping back on central defenders all the time. He was unable as well to build the game from behind when he had the chance to do it.
“And I never saw him trying to support the attack and try to do the same thing he’s doing with Arsenal.
“So I think he’s not confident. He’s covering so many miles on the pitch. He’s the only one to do that. So it’s not the same Declan Rice, but I think he’s a victim of the structure, the tactics, and the players he’s got around him in midfield.”
Road to glory
A win tonight for England now carries even more of an incentive after France failed to top their group.
Les Blues were expected to be the Three Lions’ chief rivals on route to the final had they finished atop Group D.
However, a shock 1-1 draw with Poland opened the door for Austria to leapfrog Kylian Mbappe and co. with their victory over the Netherlands.
Now, France find themselves on the hugely competitive side of the draw as punishment with Portugal, Spain, and hosts Germany.
News Summary:
- England 0-0 Slovenia LIVE: Gallagher starts in only change by Southgate as Three Lions look to avoid Germany clash
- Check all news and articles from the latest Football updates.