30 June 2024 , 14:51
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Gareth Southgate has made just one change to his starting line-up for England's clash against Slovakia in the Last 16 of Euro 2024.
The Three Lions take on Slovakia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday evening, with a quarter-final date against Switzerland at stake. Southgate's men disappointed in the group stages, despite finishing top of Group C.
They played out a goalless draw with Slovenia in the final round of the groups on Tuesday. Boss Southgate has faced calls to make major changes to his team following their poor performances.
But he looks set to resist those calls, with Kobbie Mainoo replacing Conor Gallagher in midfield being the only change to the team that started against Slovenia. Mainoo came on for Gallagher at half-time of Tuesday's draw.
The Manchester United youngster impressed in an improved second-half performance. But the other substitute who caught the eye in Cole Palmer has been left on the bench, with Bukayo Saka again selected on the right wing.
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Phil Foden also keeps his place on the left wing, having travelled back to England earlier this week for the birth of his third child. The other member of the front three also remains Harry Kane, with the striker to captain the Three Lions.
At the other end of the pitch, Jordan Pickford takes his place in goal, with Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier in the fullback positions. John Stones and Marc Geuhi continue their partnership at centre-back.
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Kobbie Mainoo replacing Conor Gallagher is England's sole change for their clash with Slovakia (UEFA via Getty Images)Mainoo will start alongside Declan Rice in central midfield, with Jude Bellingham just ahead of them in the No.10 position despite his struggles so far this tournament. Southgate is confident his side can book their place in the last eight.
"Everything that's happened is now pretty irrelevant. We have things we can build on but this is also a different test, a different phase. Each game takes place on its own merit and can take a wild direction at times," he said.
"This is the exciting part and it's the bit nobody can predict. We need to find our next level, which I believe we can. Slovakia are a very well-coached team and they've got a clear playing identity. They want to play out from the back.
"Stanislav Lobotka is clearly key in that system. He dictates the tempo. They get numbers forward early, they press well, high and aggressively. You've got to find a way of breaking through that press. It's a different sort of test.
"Absolutely, it's a brilliant challenge. We've had different problems to solve as a team over the last few weeks and I'm the leader trying to connect all of that and keep the juggernaut that is the England football team on the right path."
England line-up: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier; Mainoo, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Foden; Kane