“It will knock his confidence” - Jack Wilshere admits he feels ‘sorry' for England star tipped to not play again at Euro 2024
Former England international Jack Wilshere admitted that he felt sorry for midfielder Conor Gallagher after he was taken off at half-time in England's last Euro 2024 group game against Slovenia. He believes that there is a good chance of the Chelsea star not playing again in the competition.
Speaking to The Sun, Wilshere stated that it was harsh from Gareth Southgate to take the midfielder off. Kobbie Mainoo replaced Gallagher at half-time.
Wilshere claimed that the Chelsea star's confidence would take a hit and said:
"Gallagher comes off at half-time. We probably don’t see Gallagher again for the rest of the tournament. I feel that it was harsh on Conor Gallagher that he was taken off at half time [against Slovenia]. Firstly because it was probably our best half of the tournament. And secondly, because it didn’t feel like a Gareth Southgate thing to do. It will knock Gallagher’s confidence, for sure. He will have thought that this was his chance, but he only gets a half."
He added:
"Having said that, despite the disappointing result, the second half was better and Mainoo proved he is the man – or boy – to play there in future. He’s only 19 but he understands the game so well and knows what it needs. He is better on the ball than Gallagher and he also allowed Declan Rice to get forward even more in the second half than he had in the first. But I do feel a bit sorry for Conor Gallagher."
England's match against Slovenia finished goalless but they still managed to top the group.
Kobie Mainoo set to start for England at EURO 2024
Gareth Southgate is reportedly set to make a big decision for England's EURO 2024 Round of 16 clash against Slovakia. The manager is set to start Kobbie Mainoo alongside Declan Rice in the midfield.
The Telegraph have reported that the manager has been impressed by the Manchester United star. The teenager was in impressive form in the recently concluded season and scored in the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Fans and pundits have been calling for Cole Palmer to start ahead of Bukayo Saka, but the Arsenal star is expected to keep his place. Luke Shaw has declared that he will be fit for the upcoming match.