England manager Gareth Southgate under fire for not subbing Harry Kane in Euro 2024 opener against Serbia

Harry Kane, England's captain and all-time leading scorer with 63 international goals, had a subdued performance against Serbia in Euro 2024, despite a stellar season at Bayern Munich.

Chirag

June 17, 2024

Southgate Under Scrutiny For Not Subbing Harry Kane — KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP via Getty Images

The 30-year-old forward serves as captain of his national team and holds the record for most international goals with 63 to his credit. His stellar season at Bayern Munich in 2023-24, where he netted 44 times, earned him the European Golden Shoe.

However, Kane’s performance against Serbia fell below his usual standard. He struggled to influence the game, seeing minimal involvement in the first half and dropping deeper as England adopted a defensive stance. His best chance, a close-range header, was brilliantly saved, striking the crossbar.

Despite options like Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins on the bench, Gareth Southgate chose not to substitute Kane. Former England forward Gabby Agbonlahor criticized this decision on talkSPORT, suggesting Kane could have been replaced by a player like Watkins, known for his pace and ability to stretch defenses. Agbonlahor questioned Southgate’s cautious approach, arguing that timely substitutions could have altered the game’s dynamic.

Southgate prioritized solidity over creativity as England clung to their 1-0 lead secured by Jude Bellingham. Agbonlahor pointed out additional tactical decisions during the match, highlighting delays in making substitutions until pressured by the game’s circumstances.

Looking ahead to England’s next Group C fixture against Denmark, decisions loom regarding potential changes to the lineup. While Kane is likely to start again, players such as Phil Foden and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who played in midfield, face scrutiny over their positions.