England were basic and a struggle to watch

Former England defender Gary Neville described the Three Lions’ first-half display against Slovenia at Euro 2024 tonight as “basic” and a “struggle to watch”.

Gareth Southgate’s side secured a 0-0 draw from a drab game in Cologne – a result that sees them qualify from Group C in first place after gaining five points from their three games.

But England’s performance, particularly in the first half, will lead to more questions around Southgate’s selections and the balance of the side.

Neville said on ITV: “We looked so basic in the first half. It was a struggle to watch but it moved forward a lot in the second half even though we didn’t get the result but there was glimpses of what we can be.”

The #ThreeLions head into the #EURO2024 knockout stage as group winners 💪 pic.twitter.com/S8oMxjfuA7

— England (@England) June 25, 2024

Conor Gallagher started in midfield in place of Trent Alexander-Arnold but was withdrawn at half-time for Kobbie Mainoo. Mainoo looked sharp although England only really improved following the 71st-minute introduction of Cole Palmer.

Neville added: “England have Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Kobbie Mainoo, Phil Foden – massive, massive talents and we cannot afford to mismanage them.

“I’m certain that Kobbie Mainoo will start in the next game. He thought that Conor Gallagher might be an option because of his energy but we need someone in there that can get us playing and Mainoo does that. Adam Wharton could do that too.”