Marvelbet
Introduction
England‘s final pre-Euro 2024 friendly against Iceland at Wembley raised more questions than answers for Gareth Southgate, with defensive vulnerabilities brutally exposed in a 1-0 defeat. Our Marvelbet experts break down each player’s performance in this worrying send-off before the tournament.
Defensive Struggles Dominate Disappointing Night
Aaron Ramsdale – 5/10
The Arsenal goalkeeper, making his first England appearance since September, will be frustrated with his near-post concession to Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson’s first-half strike. Despite limited club minutes, Ramsdale showed good distribution but lacked sharpness when it mattered most.
Kyle Walker – 4/10
Manchester City’s experienced right-back had an uncharacteristically poor game. Caught out of position for Iceland’s goal and nearly punished again in the second half. Failed to contribute meaningfully in attack, completing none of his three crosses.
John Stones – 4/10
Returning to the side after Harry Maguire’s injury withdrawal, Stones looked rusty. His failure to close down Thorsteinsson for the opener was concerning. Worryingly substituted at half-time after an awkward landing, raising injury fears just days before England‘s Euro 2024 opener.
Bright Spots in Defensive Gloom
Marc Guehi – 7/10
The Crystal Palace defender emerged as England‘s sole defensive positive. Guehi’s composed performance against physical opposition should secure his place as Maguire’s tournament replacement. Made several crucial blocks and looked comfortable in possession.
Kieran Trippier – 5/10
Again deployed out of position at left-back, the Newcastle captain struggled. Awkward in advanced positions and unable to provide width, highlighting England’s desperate need for Luke Shaw’s return against Serbia.
Midfield Mix Fails to Click
Declan Rice – 5/10
The Arsenal midfielder worked hard but couldn’t impose his usual influence. While his pressing created an early chance, Iceland repeatedly exploited space behind him – a worrying sign against better opposition.
Kobbie Mainoo – 6/10
The Manchester United teenager showed glimpses of his technical quality in just his second England start. Some neat footwork and progressive passing impressed before fading in the second half.
Attacking Frustrations Mount
Phil Foden – 5/10
The Premier League Player of the Year struggled in the number 10 role. Despite one exquisite cross-field pass, Foden was largely nullified by Iceland’s compact defense and wasted a golden second-half chance.
Cole Palmer – 6/10
Chelsea’s rising star created England’s best chance with a delicious cross for Kane. Showed flashes of creativity but should have done better with second-half opportunities.
Anthony Gordon – 6/10
The Newcastle winger was one of England‘s brighter sparks. His direct running and pace caused problems, and he created a clear chance for Foden. Pushing hard for a starting spot against Serbia.
Harry Kane – 4/10
Uncharacteristically poor from England’s captain. Missed a golden first-half chance from Palmer’s cross and failed to register a shot on target. His deep movements left England lacking presence in the box.
Substitutes Provide Mixed Impact
Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7/10
The Liverpool star’s 20-minute cameo boosted his starting credentials. Two exquisite passes for Ivan Toney showcased his creative quality from right-back.
Ezri Konsa – 6/10
Replaced Stones at half-time, suggesting he’s ahead of Joe Gomez in the center-back pecking order. Had some nervy moments but generally solid.
Ivan Toney – 5/10
The Brentford striker had an immediate penalty appeal waved away and saw another chance deflected wide. Showed more movement than Kane but lacked service.
England’s Euro 2024 Schedule
Monday June 10 – Squad departs for Germany
Sunday June 16 – vs Serbia (Gelsenkirchen, 8pm BST)
Thursday June 20 – vs Denmark (Frankfurt, 5pm BST)
Tuesday June 25 – vs Slovenia (Cologne, 8pm BST)
Conclusion: Concerning Signs Before Serbia Clash
This Marvelbet analysis reveals significant defensive frailties England must address before their Euro 2024 opener. While individual bright spots like Guehi, Gordon and Alexander-Arnold emerged, Southgate has much work to do to transform this disjointed performance into tournament-ready form. The Serbia match now looms as a crucial test of England’s credentials.
What did you make of England’s performance? Share your thoughts with our Marvelbet community below and check out our in-depth Euro 2024 previews for more expert analysis.
