We’ll never hear the end of it
Kevin Kilbane has spotted one detail which could result in England winning Euro 2024.
England have failed to set the world alight in Germany but have still managed to pick up results to take them all the way to the semi finals.
Their latest was a convincing penalty shootout victory against Switzerland after the two played out a tense 1-1 draw across 120 minutes.
Trent Alexander-Arnold converted the winning spot-kick and Gareth Southgate’s side will now face the Netherlands in Dortmund on Wednesday for a place in Sunday’s final.
🏴 5-3 🇨🇭 penalties
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Trent Alexander-Arnold holds his nerve to book England's spot in semi-finals#euro2024
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Kilbane makes observation that could work in England’s favour
A lot has been made of their relatively tame route to the final in comparison to the other side of the draw but former Republic of Ireland International Kilbane has spotted something which may mean advantage England.
While working as a pundit for Canadian network TSN, Kilbane made a good point about England’s young prospects.
There is history at the Euros of the side that doesn’t necessarily play the best football still go on to win it,” he said.
“We have seen that with Greece in 2004 and Portugal in 2016, both of whom did not play an attractive style.
“I haven’t enjoyed watching England in this tournament. They have so much talent at their disposal and I don’t think Gareth Southgate is using that talent wisely.
“But they have got enough about them defensively where they look solid enough. They don’t look like they are going to concede too often and that is their biggest strength I suppose.
“John Stones has been very good positionally, but they are not a great watch.
“England winning penalty shootouts is a rarity in itself but if they are winning them then they have got a chance.”
The Three Lions haven’t won a trophy since 1966 but given that this is likely to be Southgate’s last tournament on the sidelines, he’ll be hoping to sign off by delivering the nation silverware at the fourth time of asking.
