Neville Highlights England's Resilience But Stresses Need For Improvement Against Netherlands

England have demonstrated their tournament expertise by advancing to the Euro 2024 semi-finals, but they need to elevate their game against the Netherlands, according to Gary Neville. The Three Lions secured their third semi-final appearance in four major tournaments under Gareth Southgate, overcoming Switzerland 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the quarter-finals on Saturday.

Since Southgate's appointment in 2016, England have reached the last four in three out of four major tournaments. Before his tenure, they had only managed this feat twice in 17 tournaments since 1968. Despite this success, Southgate has faced harsh criticism for the team's lacklustre attacking displays in Germany. Their expected goals (xG) tally of 4.36 has been surpassed by ten teams already eliminated from the competition.

Neville believes that switching to a 3-4-3 formation against Switzerland improved England's performance. "I've felt we've had a better balance; the team suits it," Neville told Sky Sports News. "It's more fluid, a more relaxed nature in the football, particularly in the first half."

Neville highlighted England's ability to navigate through tournaments successfully. "This team has tournament know-how; they get to semi-finals," he said. He also acknowledged some luck with their draw, having faced Serbia, Denmark, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Switzerland. "If you said you'd get those five teams in a major tournament you'd be very happy," he added.

Despite not playing at their best, Neville noted that many teams have advanced without being spectacular. "Spain have played some fantastic football but other teams have been quite unspectacular but getting through," he observed.

The Challenge Ahead

Neville emphasised that Wednesday's semi-final against the Netherlands will be England's toughest challenge yet. "It's a good sign for a team; you have to get through difficult matches but you can't rely on that all the time," he stated. He warned that failing to improve performance levels could eventually lead to being caught out.

"Saturday was definitely a step up in terms of our balance; it was a step forward," Neville continued. "Now we have to step up again against the Netherlands on Wednesday." He stressed that England would need to significantly raise their game as the Dutch possess some formidable players.

While acknowledging Southgate's role in transforming England into serious contenders, Neville insists that further improvement is essential for success against stronger opponents like the Netherlands.