In his column for The Times, Rooney highlighted that Mainoo, Gordon, and Cole Palmer have all demonstrated strong cases for starting in England’s upcoming match against Slovakia, based on their impactful performances coming off the bench against Slovenia.
During the initial phase, Southgate largely maintained a consistent starting lineup, making minimal changes such as substituting Trent Alexander-Arnold with Conor Gallagher in the third game. However, Mainoo and Gordon stood out significantly, prompting fans and Rooney to advocate for their inclusion in the starting lineup for the round of 16.
Rooney commented, “Against Slovenia, Kobbie Mainoo staked a big claim for a starting place, Cole Palmer was very good and Anthony Gordon, though he played only a few minutes, had a couple of excellent touches. At just the right time in the tournament, Gareth may have stumbled upon the right team. I would play at least two of those three youngsters against Slovakia – and, in fact, I said before the tournament that my starting XI for the knockout stage would have Mainoo and Gordon in it.”
Reflecting on Southgate’s decisions, Rooney noted, “None of what happened in the group stage surprised me. I would never have played Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield and expected that, when the experiment didn’t work, Gareth would try Conor Gallagher. Gareth killed both a bit by discarding them, but in each case, it was the right call and when Mainoo came in you saw him making forward runs and showing composure on the ball. “Palmer is just suited to international football. He can take the ball, he’s calm on it and has the personality you need on that stage. Gordon is more direct than the other two and ensures there is a good blend.”
Recent reports suggest that Kobbie Mainoo is likely to start in the Slovakia game, with Gordon potentially replacing Phil Foden if needed, given Foden’s recent absence due to the birth of his child. Should England triumph, they will advance to a quarter-final against either Italy or Switzerland.
England performance and stats
England
It will be England ended the league in the position with points.
It has a even goal difference after scoring goals and conceding .
