According to The Telegraph, England manager Southgate is considering changing the starting eleven for their final match against Slovenia due to concerns over players’ fitness, including that of Harry Kane.
In the second group game, England drew 1-1 with Denmark. After the match, Southgate admitted he would make alterations for the third group opponent, primarily based on the physical condition of his squad. Luke Shaw remains unfit, while Kane, despite being injury-free, is not at his peak fitness. Following the draw, Kane, Bellingham, Walker, and Rice, the team’s locker room leaders, called for calm and avoided panic.
The newspaper suggests that Southgate initially planned to include Shaw in the last fixture. However, his continued absence from Friday’s training session casts doubt over his involvement, either as a starter or substitute. After two underwhelming group performances, Southgate believes the team’s lack of pressing is due to players’ physical states.
During a press conference, he said, “We’re not pressing opponents enough, lacking intensity. The players’ fitness is limiting us. We can’t produce the high-intensity pressure we did in the qualifiers. Secondly, we’re not controlling the ball well, so we’re often on the back foot, losing confidence in the game.”
Gordon and Palmer are yet to feature, while Mee is vying for a spot with Gallagher and Arnold in midfield. Reports indicate that Coady has impressed in training, but it’s unclear if Southgate will make changes to the defensive line.