England’s defence has long been an area of concern, but Southgate has tried hard to revamp it since taking over. Chris Smalling has been discarded altogether, Gary Cahill shunted to second choice, while Phil Jagielka hasn’t played since November 2016. In their places are players with ball-playing pedigree to change the Three Lions’ style altogether – in theory, at least.
In an ideal world, John Stones is the crown jewel of Southgate’s back three; Kyle Walker the surprise pet project. Harry Maguire is a deserved pick off the back of a strong debut season at Leicester, but struggled against Tunisia with some poor distribution that could have cost England. It’s a lot to ask of a relatively inexperienced centre-back with very few caps to feel comfortable at the heart of an England backline, but some harsh realities must be faced if and when England come up against wilier opposition.
Walker had no such issues on the ball, but was the culprit in giving away the penalty that let Tunisia back in. Ultimately, his challenge wasn’t necessary and gave referee Roldan a decision to make – possibly a harsh one which England found themselves on the rough end of. Either way, Rio Ferdinand was unamused. “If Kyle Walker is positioned correctly, he doesn’t concede a penalty,” huffed the former stopper. “A centre-half facing his own goal when a ball is coming into the box is criminal.”