Wayne Rooney has voiced criticism of England manager Gareth Southgate’s tactics during the Euro 2024 group stage, highlighting disappointing performances against Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia.
Criticism of Player Management:
Rooney specifically pointed out Southgate’s handling of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Gallagher, claiming the manager ‘killed’ their confidence by playing them out of position in midfield before quickly discarding them.
Tactical Experiments:
Alexander-Arnold, primarily a right-back for Liverpool, was paired with Declan Rice in midfield against Serbia and Denmark with mixed results. Gallagher started against Slovenia but was substituted at half-time, leading to further criticism from Rooney.
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Emerging Midfield Options:
Rooney praised Kobbie Mainoo’s performance against Slovenia, suggesting Southgate may have found his ideal midfield setup. He also advocated for more involvement from Anthony Gordon and Cole Palmer in the upcoming knockout match against Slovakia.
Rooney’s Recommendations:
Rooney emphasized the importance of integrating Mainoo and Gordon into the starting XI, citing their energy and ability to make forward runs. He also highlighted Palmer’s composure and suitability for international football.
Looking Ahead:
As England prepares for their last-16 clash against Slovakia, Rooney remains optimistic about their chances, suggesting that the team can improve and has a favorable draw that could lead to becoming European champions.
Rooney’s insights shed light on England’s tactical challenges and potential solutions, urging Southgate to capitalize on the young talent within the squad as they advance in the tournament.
