Shearer Critiques England's Lack Of Pattern Due To Midfield Imbalance At Euro 2024

Alan Shearer believes England have yet to establish their style of play at Euro 2024, with Gareth Southgate struggling to find a balanced midfield. Despite topping Group C after a goalless draw with Slovenia on Tuesday, the Three Lions faced boos from fans and criticism for their lacklustre performances.

England's expected goals (xG) against Slovenia were just 0.8, and their tournament matches have produced the fewest xG overall (2.26 for, 1.13 against). Southgate has made only one change to his starting line-ups so far, with Conor Gallagher replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield for the last match. However, Gallagher was substituted at half-time for Kobbie Mainoo after failing to make an impact.

Shearer expressed his concerns about England's midfield setup, particularly the use of Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham together. "One of the most concerning things about watching England is that I don't see a pattern of play when we bring the ball forward. I just see us struggling to find one," he said.

He suggested a different approach: "The way Phil Foden and [Jude] Bellingham are being used together has not been a success, which is why I thought the better route would be to use Bellingham alongside [Declan] Rice and put Foden as the number 10."

Shearer also highlighted issues in England's attack, noting that Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden struggled to make an impact up front. Late substitutions Anthony Gordon and Cole Palmer provided more threat in stoppage time.

"The move right at the end that started with Bellingham and Gordon on the left and ended with Palmer's shot being saved was probably the best thing we did all night," Shearer added. "It was the only time at these Euros that I saw us move the ball from left to right with pace, and it caused the opposition problems."

Shearer emphasised that Southgate needs to find a way to get the best out of his players if they are to replicate their club form on the international stage. "We keep on saying there is so much more to come from this team, but Southgate has not found the balance to get the best out of his players," he said.

Potential Solutions

The former England striker sees potential in Gordon and Palmer as key players who could provide much-needed energy and spark. "Palmer and Gordon have given Southgate something massive to think about - and he has got some huge decisions to make," Shearer stated.

"That's what gives me the most hope because there's not been very much else to get excited about," he concluded.

England will need significant improvements if they are to progress further in Euro 2024. Fans will be hoping Southgate can address these issues before their next match.