Hits and misses: England’s stars unthreatened as pressure increases on Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny

English students jostle but star roles are not threatened

Ollie Watkins made his case with the winning goal. Lewis Dunk and Sam Johnstone produced goal-saving interventions. But while England’s fringe players jostled to take on understudy roles in this team, the star players were not threatened by anything seen on Friday night.

Watkins, outrunning the Australian defense and hitting a post in the first half, was a threat and showed his attributes. But his fight is against Callum Wilson and Eddie Nketiah, not Harry Kane. He could be at the front of the queue to replace the England captain if needed now.

Likewise, Dunk is likely to make way for Harry Maguire and John Stones, fitness permitting, when Gareth Southgate uses a more conventional back four, while Jordan Pickford remains the No.1 given his historic contributions during Southgate’s tenure.

But although Levi Colwill, Conor Gallagher and Jarrod Bowen were also on the pitch, none of England’s fringe or emerging young players took their opportunity with enough substance to really make Southgate consider reassessing his plans for Tuesday night against the ‘Italy. If Southgate had learned anything from this victory, it would be this.
Pierre Smith

Trent hybrid gives Southgate options

In the last English teams, the name of Trent Alexander-Arnold stood out. He was listed as a midfielder, and against Australia many thought he would get another chance to shine in the middle of the park for England.

However, the Liverpool defender was named at right-back and from the first whistle it was clear he was slotting into midfield in the hybrid role he has played for his club this season.

And on a night where there were few bright lights for the Three Lions, Alexander-Arnold’s ability and confidence with the ball gave Gareth Southgate something to think about as he begins to finalize his plans for Euro 2024.

With Southgate making numerous changes against Australia, who made life difficult in midfield with his organization and pressing, England failed to get into fifth gear, but that was not for lack of skill. trying, especially Alexander-Arnold, who was always looking to take the ball and dictate the play.

He contributed to England’s eventual winner with a deep, precise cross to Jack Grealish, whose shot was collected by Ollie Watkins.

This proved to be one of Alexander-Arnold’s final appearances at right-back before being moved to midfield for the final 30 minutes of the match. It’s talent and versatility that could prove key for Southgate come tournament time.
Olivier If

Is Kenny’s time up?

Former Republic of Ireland international Stephen Kelly speaks to Sky Sports News about Stephen Kenny’s future as Ireland manager following their 2-0 home defeat to Greece which ended his hopes of automatic qualification for Euro 2024:

“I think Stephen Kenny, when he came in, there was so much goodwill, a manager coming from the national league, everyone wanted him to succeed.

“He had this mantra of wanting to tear Irish football apart and play from the back with a possession-based style. It’s fantastic, it’s a great idea and it’s the way the game is evolving, but is- Was this going to work?’t.

“You look at Greece and the way they played, and they were comfortable in that game tonight. Ireland never really tested them, and they should have and they have capable players, but they just lacked a little identity and forward thinking.

“Ireland went to four in defense but there was no cohesion or inventiveness in the game.

“Going forward, I think at the end of this campaign, that’s probably it (for Kenny). I’m not too sure he’ll continue as manager.

“I think they’re probably looking at candidates now to move forward, but there’s still a few games left. Could he turn things around? I’d say it’s probably slim.”
Declan Olley

Agony for Scotland as wait for euro continues

Scotland left the field to applause from the traveling support, but after coming so close to a famous night, this result will hurt.

They went into the match with five wins from five, knowing that a draw would be enough to secure their place in Germany next summer.

Steve Clarke’s side fought hard but, after losing captain Andrew Robertson to a shoulder injury, outrage erupted when Scott McTominay’s opener was disallowed by VAR. It was sickening for the Scots.

Spain could do them a favor on Sunday evening by taking something from Norway in Oslo.

If that doesn’t happen, there are two more qualifiers left to ensure qualification for Euro 2024. Surely this will be confirmed before they face Georgia in Tbilisi next month?
Alison Conroy

Porteous is impervious as Scots close in

It was tough on all Scotland players when they were hit during Spain’s second goal in Seville to seal victory on Thursday night.

Ryan Porteous’ desperate slide brought the ball into the Athletic Bilbao midfield and past Angus Gunn was nothing short of cruel.

The Watford defender put his body on the line as he had all night, using his physical presence in the air and on the ground to deny Spain, and the crafty Alvaro Morata in particular, the freedom of the opposition box which they enjoyed so much. easily recently.

Since their draw at Hampden Park in March, Spain have scored 15 goals in the last four matches. Two of those matches came against Georgia and Cyprus, but disorganized teams will have to pay.

Scotland’s low block denied Spain the chance to build, but all three defenders, and Porteous in particular, had to be activated time and time again as the hosts looked to lift the ball in behind, sending in crosses in depth and to challenge set pieces.

It was only Porteous’ seventh cap, but he looks to be a confident member of Clarke’s rearguard.

Assuming there are no big shocks between now and the end of qualifying, he could prove a major asset to his manager in Germany next summer.
Ron Walker