Fans not impressed by England’s late win
ENGLAND can take a decisive step towards clinching qualification for next year’s World Cup by beating Slovakia at home today, although winning over their own supporters might prove a more difficult challenge.
With three games remaining, unbeaten England lead Group F by two points from Slovakia and victory today at Wembley would almost certainly secure at least a playoff spot for next year’s finals in Russia.
But England were flattered by a late flurry of goals in Friday’s 4-0 win in Malta, a performance that was accompanied by expletive-sprinkled jeers from their watching supporters.
No one doubts that Gareth Southgate’s side have talented individuals; the problem is gelling them together.
Two of England’s team against Malta, Kyle Walker and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, moved clubs in deals totalling £90-million (R1.5-billion) this season.
Other players are valued even higher, with Harry Kane and Dele Alli expected to command fees approaching £200-million (R3.35-billion) should they leave Tottenham Hotspur.
Despite such riches, England toiled on Friday against modest opposition, who are stranded at the bottom of the group without a point.
“When it comes to something special, we haven’t quite got that,” former England captain Terry Butcher said.
But the introduction of the pacey Marcus Rashford gave England more of an edge in the absence of injured Adam Lallana and it was no real surprise when they scored three times late on against tiring opponents.
Kane’s two second-half strikes mean he is now top scorer under Southgate with five goals, more than twice as many as any of his teammates.
The striker remains England’s most potent weapon although the search will be stepped up to find a midfielder capable of unlocking defences and provide the service he thrives on.
“He hasn’t got the blend of his team right, he hasn’t got the shape, but that requires work,” Butcher said.
Getting the correct blend would no doubt spark the imagination of supporters weary of years of underachievement.
On Friday, many booed off their own team at half time and others left before the late goals.