Before England’s Euro 2024 last-16 tie against Slovakia on Sunday, the BBC’s chief football writer Phil McNulty has been answering readers’ questions on all things Three Lions.
David asked: Are England ruing the day that Gareth Southgate made the weird decision not to select Jack Grealish? One of the few players who can change a game.
Phil: I don’t think so. Grealish did not have a great season at Manchester City. Remember, Pep Guardiola did not even bring him on when they desperately needed a goal against Manchester United in the FA Cup final.
England have good options in players like Anthony Gordon and Cole Palmer, so I don’t believe Southgate will be regretting not picking Jack Grealish.
Dave asked: Do you think Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is to blame for the fact teams do not have players capable of going past defenders and getting in crosses. England, like so many teams, come in from wide positions and across the edge of the penalty area right into the area of the pitch with most defenders.
Phil: Honest answer – no. This is on Gareth Southgate and this group of players. Guardiola has enhanced the England squad by improving his players, like John Stones and Phil Foden. I would give him credit rather than blame.