Kieran Trippier breaks his silence on feelings inside the England camp amid concerns
Kieran Trippier has called on his Three Lions teammates to "show more desire" in their Group C finale against Slovenia.
England have already booked their place in the knockout rounds, but critical eyes will be cast on the last game of the group stage in Cologne. Gareth Southgate's side have been heavily scrutinised since their turgid 1-1 draw with Denmark and an unconvincing 1-0 opener against Serbia.
Indeed, Gary Lineker dubbed the display "s***" on his 'The Rest is Football' podcast, prompting firm responses from England skipper Harry Kane and midfielder Declan Rice in defence of the displays.
And Trippier has waded into the diatribe, stating that ahead of Tuesday night's game the conversation within the England camp has been one of both optimism and realism.
"We know we need to improve, individually and as a group," Trippier told ITV before kick-off. " Tonight we've talked at length that we need to put on a performance. We want to top the group, that's the most important thing and hopefully, that's tonight."
Asked what the vibe within camp has been like amid the ongoing scrutiny from media and fans, the 33-year-old said: "Positivity. There's so much we can improve on, we've discussed that as a group. We've got an opportunity now to finish top of the group and put in a real performance.
"Pressing better. Keeping the ball much better. Going back to basics, that's what got us success. Hopefully today we show that. We show more desire, more goal threat as well. Most of all keep a clean sheet."
Southgate was urged to make drastic changes to his squad after the soporific display against the Danes, though the England boss ruled out widespread alterations against Slovenia in his pre-match press conference.
England were criticised for their poor display against Denmark
And Southgate stood by his sentiment, making only one change to face Slovenia with Conor Gallagher replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield to partner with Rice and Jude Bellingham.
Despite questions over the efficiency of England's front three, Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka keep their starting berths on either side of captain Harry Kane.
Victory for England over Slovenia would ensure top spot in Group C and thus pit them against the third-placed team from groups D, E or F - with potential contenders the Netherlands following their 3-2 defeat to Austria. Meanwhile, England would play Germany should they finish as runners-up in Group C.
An unlikely third-place finish would mean facing Portugal, though such a scenario would require England to lose to Slovenia while Denmark would need to defeat Serbia.
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