Three things we learnt from England’s 0-0 draw with Slovenia

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England Continue To Look Nervy in Defence

“England have looked shaky defensively tonight,” said ITV’s Clive Tyldesley during the second half; with a tone of surprise that suggested hasn’t paid much attention over the last two years. England are not the most technically gifted and orchestral side in world football, and won’t be for the foreseeable future, so they must tighten up at the back. There seems to be a nervousness that spreads across the backline like wildfire during times of adversity. Against Slovenia, individual errors and lapses in concentration were the problem as demonstrated by the litany of loose passes.

Some better performances and extra confidence will help matters, but you get the feeling the next catastrophe is never far away. With the amount of pace England have in their team, they should be suited to playing on the counter attack. However, their lack of defensive security and ability to soak up pressure deters them from pursuing this tactic. That, and the fact most of their opponents are only interested in defending.

Featured image: All rights reserved by Serg Hoholok