One way traffic this. I really hope we don't convert back to 5-2-3 if we go deeper into the tournament against the top top sides. Kalvin Phillips has been impressive in these opening 20 minutes. Kieran Trippier just shown why he shouldn't be playing left back though. Makes a run down the side, cuts back instantly onto his right foot and kills the attack dead.
Excellent fisrt 20 min for England. Anyway bear in mind Croatia is not as young as England,so they can not follow this crazy rhythm of play...
England didnt get a goal, and they ought to have. Croatia is going to have a spell of attack shortly, and they are good at cheating too.
Good start overall. Croatia don't look comfortable but are starting to settle down now.Frustrated by all our left sided attacks having to come inside all the time.
Kyle Walker hasnt had the best 30 minutes, mis placed a couple of passes, I can see why Gareth picked so many right backs now.
Getting excuses in early ? I've just emailed the beeb to whack on some fake crowd noise for the 2nd half , though the game is boring , kind of sums up Southgate's charisma .
Regret not sticking money on a goalless tournament for Kane before the start of the competition. Great to see him not coming too deep today and being completely ineffective and anonymous.
Ref has been impressive, not buying any of the players attempts to win free-kicks by chucking themselves to the floor. Modric is fantastic to watch, still at 35 years age. Makes the game look effortless.
