Souček’s colleague reacts to the criticism of the English: We do not receive such recognition
England’s representation has had a comfortable progress from Group B. Coach Gareth Southgate’s men have advanced from first place in the company of Wales, the USA and Iran, yet they are facing criticism from England fans, which logically doesn’t sit well with the players.
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England midfielder Declan Rice.
| Photo: Profimedia
Two dominant wins and one draw. England went strong on the way to the dream of winning the title of world champions from Qatar, yet there is criticism from the British Isles that the Albion team is playing dull football in places.
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After progressing to the round of 16, one of England’s players, who responded to criticism, did not hold back. “We could have been the underdogs, but instead we played well in every game. We saw a lot of surprises in the championship, but we didn’t get into a situation where we felt under pressure,” responds to the sometimes laughable criticism of the English fans and the media by the moderator Tomáš Souček and Vladimír Coufal from West Ham Declan Rice, who is the basic building block of the reserve Albion linebacker.
Southgate rotates the lineup
England progressed from Group B with a 9-2 scoreline, having scored more goals only in the last World Cup and the winning one in 1966. “Every World Cup is full of surprises, you can’t take anything for granted. This is also the reason why we are doing so well. Maybe that’s why we don’t get the kind of recognition we deserve for our performances,” reflects the agile midfielder.
England coach Gareth Southgate rotated all the attacking players at his disposal during the group stage. Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, Marcus Rashford and Phil Foden were happy about the goal, team captain and main attacking force Harry Kane has three assists to his credit. “When we start playing with better teams, our level will go up logically. The knockout games at the World Cup are something you want to remember for a lifetime, we are well prepared for them,” believes the 23-year-old Rice.
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And it is precisely the frequent rotation that bothers the English media and fans, but for the opponents and especially their coaches, it can be very difficult for the elimination battles. England have every contribution at least doubled by a world-caliber footballer. “Other national teams always look at us with respect and are well aware of our quality. If you look at our forwards, we have incredible talent in every position. We have players all over the team who have won major trophies, so we don’t lack confidence,” Rice says confidently.