England may have taken four points from their opening two games at Euro 2024 but there has been a typically negative reaction from their media with former players sharing their concerns.
The EURO 2020 finalists came into this tournament as one of the favourites to go all the way, but they have flattered to deceive in their opening two games against Serbia and Denmark.
Though they got over the line against Serbia, they were ultimately held to a draw by the Danes, and the English media have begun to accept that there are major issues with the balance of Southgate's team.
They are all but assured of a place in the last 16, though it is clear to most viewers that they are not going far in the competition unless something changes.
Former England player Gary Lineker labelled their performance against Denmark 's***' and claimed that Harry Kane must do more and the England striker responded strongly at a subsequent press conference.
"It is just the reality that they know that it is tough to play in these major tournaments and tough to play for England," Kane said.
“I would never disrespect any player. All I would say is remember what it is like to wear the shirt and that their words are listened to. You do hear it.
“We all want to win a major tournament. Being as helpful as they can and building the lads up with confidence would be a much better way of going about it.”
Richie Sadlier slams Harry Kane's response to England critics
Former Ireland striker and current RTE pundit Richie Sadlier was far from impressed with Kane's riposte, warning that it could be an ominous sign for Gareth Southgate's squad.
Sadlier, who was speaking after Italy's draw with Croatia on Monday night, shared his disbelief with Kane's decision to plea for sympathy from former players and pundits alike.
I think if Harry Kane's comments are reflective of how the squad actually feels about the criticism they have received then they are in way deeper trouble than their playing performances suggest that they are," Sadlier said.
"He said those pundits have been part of those past teams who have not won trophies but he also said the players respect them, listen to their views and are affected by it. What a whopper of a thing to say!
"Imagine playing as far below their standards for the last two games and having a go at those critics or saying 'your criticism is affecting us please stop'.
"A pundit's role isn't to cheerlead; it is to critically analyse what they are watching and if anything English pundit is praising those players over the last two games then they are not doing their job.
"It was odd.
"It is surprising because you think of the level he has played at. Why he would give it the air-time he did and say the players are impacted by it or plea for pundits to be more positive... it doesn't reflect well on them at all."
Harry Kane's reaction to criticism of England at the Euros raises huge questions about the mentality of the squad, according to Richie Sadlier. #RTESoccer pic.twitter.com/LTAUZ1vKO8
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) June 24, 2024
Rival nations are sure to be sitting back and enjoying the England's squad's ongoing woes both on and off the pitch.
It is sure to be doing them no favours.
They are all but through to the last 16 of the competition despite their struggles and look to get the better of Slovenia on Tuesday in order to top their group.
