Multiple Manchester United players featured for England in the nation’s comfortable 1-0 victory over Czech Republic, which saw the team finish 1st in Group D of Euro 2020. The game, at least in the first half, fulfilled England fans desire for a less restricted, freer flowing brand of football, which was noticeably absent from the team’s first two performances.
Overview
A key factor providing that attacking flair for England was Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw, who mirrored his club form and approach, as Southgate allowed him to venture further up the pitch and make an impact in the final third with his overlapping runs and crossing abilities.
Alongside Shaw, this game saw the return of Harry Maguire from injury, who looked more than comfortable in his role, as the Czech attackers struggled to consistently apply any true pressure on the English centre-backs. Maguire was composed on the ball and played multiple forward passes that many midfielders would be proud of, alongside an on-ball drive into the opposition final third in the second half, displaying that the Englishman seemed comfortable and confident within himself and his injury recovery.
Manchester United’s 2nd best goal contributor this season on 21 goals and 12 assists Marcus Rashford made a substitution appearance for The Three Lions, however, failed to make much of an impact on the game. This isn’t really an indication on what Marcus can offer for England this tournament, as the whole England side slowed down in the second half and showed a real lack of edge, meaning Marcus didn’t exactly have much to work with in terms of link-up play and through balls being played in behind for him.
Finally, although he’s not a Manchester United player yet (at the time of writing), Jadon Sancho made his long awaited Euro 2020 debut, though was given little time to display his talents, as he came on in the 84th minute.
Ratings
Harry Maguire: 7
Luke Shaw: 7
Marcus Rashford: 6
Jadon Sancho: 5.5