"Feels like more of a U21 squad" - Paul Scholes questions Southgate's snub of 2 England stars after nervy Euro 2024 opening win vs Serbia
Paul Scholes has told Gareth Southgate he made a mistake not taking Marcus Rashford or Jack Grealish to Euro 2024 after England's 1-0 win against Serbia. The Three Lions won courtesy of Jude Bellingham's 13th-minute header.
It was a tame performance from Southgate's men that left much to be admired. They head into the tournament as one of the heavy favorites but weren't impressive against Serbia.
Scholes gave his thoughts on the game with a post on Instagram. The legendary former suggested Southgate has selected an inexperienced squad:
"Can't help but feel the hard work from previous tournaments has been wasted... some brilliantly talented young players but it feels like more of a U21 squad than a senior one."
Rashford and Grealish were the most surprising names to miss out on England's squad for Euro 2024. The Manchester United man was an ever-present for Southgate at international tournaments.
Manchester City's Grealish made the provisional 33-man squad but failed to make the final cut. Both endured frustrating seasons at club level.
Scholes argued that the attacking duo would have added speed and ball retention:
"Rashford or Grealish coming on for 20/30 mins at the end brings speed or ball retention, don't think we had either... anyway fingers crossed they improve and win it."
England started with Phil Foden on the left wing, and the City attacker struggled to get a foothold in the game. He was moved out of his preferred No.10 position for Bellingham, which flourished.
Erik ten Hag gives his thoughts on England's Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish missing Euro 2024
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag responded honestly when asked about Rashford and Grealish's Euro 2024 absences. The Red Devils coach told Dutch TV show NOS Studio Voetbal that the pair hadn't done enough at club level:
"[Rashford and Grealish] were both lacking this season, it's clear. And when you are lacking, you risk not getting picked for your country."
Rashford struggled with just eight goals and five assists in 43 games across competitions last season. His professionalism was questioned when he called in sick for training after a night out binge drinking.
Grealish was similarly disappointing, and he also endured consistent fitness issues. He managed just three goals and as many assists in 36 games across competitions.
England have an exciting array of attackers knocking on Southgate's door. Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon, Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, and West Ham United's Jarrod Bowen headed to Germany instead.