England torn to shreds by Euros rivals amid calls to sack Gareth Southgate
The press from around Europe hammered England after their lacklustre draw against Slovenia - suggesting that Gareth Southgate should face the sack.
The Three Lions topped Group C but have been hugely unconvincing during their three games, scoring just twice in the process. England came into the Euros as favourites for the tournament but, their attack especially, has underwhelmed.
Harry Kane, Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and co have failed to replicate the form they show for their clubs with Southgate unable to find a winning formula from his talented squad. Their underwhelming tournament thus far has seen media outlets in other countries take aim at the Three Lions.
German tabloid Bild claimed "These Lions are kittens" as they hammered England's performance on Tuesday night, which saw them struggle to create many chances. No player rated above a five and Declan Rice was handed a three for his showing in midfield.
French outlet L'Equipe is known for its ruthless assessment of player and team performances. They described the performance as “bland” and “without ideas” - although they were not too kind towards their own players either after Les Blues' struggles.
In Spain, Marca went even further and claimed that England and the FA should weigh up changing Southgate. “He has Kane, Bellingham, Foden, Saka, Rice, Palmer in his ranks... and he has managed to get none of them to play well,” wrote Alberto Rubio. “Oh if Guardiola had this team!!!”
England could well face the Netherlands in the last 16 and the main Dutch outlet, De Telegraaf, wrote that it appeared that England were playing with the “handbrake on” and making “incomprehensible choices under pressure”.
Harry Kane is part of a misfiring attack
The Three Lions have advanced as group winners and will play their first knockout game on Sunday. After a win against Serbia and a draw with Denmark, Southgate did feel as though his side were heading in the right direction despite failing to score.
He said: "Things are starting to come together" and then went on to add: "We have created some good openings and, at the moment, it is hard work for us. We are not quite getting that break in front of goal. I think the players who came on did well. I understand the reactions but it is a tough environment."
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