Racing Post

Didi Hamann.....................................

Didi Hamann

THERE’S a lot to like about England who will be one of the more exciting sides at the Euros this summer, but I think they’re too young to win the tournament. And they certainly aren’t helped by having a keeper in Jordan Pickford who can be a real liability.

I like calmness and assuredness in my goalkeepers – and Pickford is neither of those and at this level with all the pressure that comes in big games, that could easily become a problem.

Also, John Stones has won plaudits galore this season and I do like him. But it’s not hard to look good playing alongside someone as good as Ruben Dias and in a Manchester City team who dominate possession, just mopping up the odd long ball and then knocking passes around.

His chemistry alongside Harry Maguire in an England shirt is different and England are guilty of offering up careless chances.

With three games at Wembley England should win their group but are going to be running into France, Portugal or Germany in round two, then maybe Spain if they get through that. International experience is important and I do wonder if Gareth Southgate has enough in the group to overcome tests like those.

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2021-06-03T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-06-03T07:00:00.0000000Z

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