Following England’s 1-0 victory over Serbia in their opening Euro match, numerous British media outlets and fans criticized the team’s performance, deeming it below par. In response, several England players have pushed back against the criticism.
“The media always likes to create a storm and put ideas into your head that perhaps shouldn’t be there,” said England vice-captain Walker. “All the players are top-class, I’ve played against them many times in the Premier League, and I know what they can do. Whoever is here, whoever isn’t, whoever represents England, they’re fantastic players. We use the players we have, complement each other’s weaknesses, and we play to our strengths – it’s as simple as that!”
Mark Guehi emphasized the importance of the coach’s feedback, stating, “Southgate is very pleased, he’s happy with the resilience and togetherness on the pitch. Every major tournament is tough, and we need to show that resilience throughout the rest of the competition.”
Before the Euros, Southgate had warned his players about disregarding external “noise,” a sentiment he reinforced leading up to this tournament, urging calmness among the squad. With a younger team than in the 2022 World Cup (the 26 players have a combined total of 169 fewer international appearances), Guehi, representing the inexperienced, noted, “It’s a big test, but having so many experienced players around you helps. Defending alongside someone who has been to four or five major tournaments before, it allows me to relax and enjoy the moment.”
Pickford highlighted the team’s defensive efforts, saying, “We work hard off the ball, as a unit. When we lose possession, we maintain our shape, press as a team, and fight together to win it back, limiting the opposition. Being without the ball is more important than having it. Clean sheets? Individually, it’s a great achievement, but I never celebrate alone; we’re an 11-man team, with substitutes contributing. And when my teammates need me, I’m there to make saves. It’s a collective effort. To stand alongside greats like Peter Shilton, the record holder, is an honor, but it’s a team accomplishment.”
Rice underscored the significance of solid defense: “We build on clean sheets, which is massive. In the last Euros, we won five out of seven, and at the World Cup, we had many shutouts. Strong defending makes us strong.”
Trippier added, “Look at the history of Euros winners – keeping opponents scoreless is crucial. In the last tournament, we kept multiple clean sheets, and that gets you further. Ultimately, not conceding is key.”