Former Manchester United and England captain Rio Ferdinand has shared his candid views on Chelsea’s Cole Palmer following Southgate’s decision to leave him out against Serbia.
Ferdinand believes the England team lacked the “swagger and arrogance” that Palmer could have brought during their fortunate 1-0 victory over Serbia.
In their Euro 2024 opener, Gareth Southgate’s team delivered a mixed performance, coming under intense pressure after Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham headed them into the lead just before the 15-minute mark.
“You’d like to sit there and say the game needed a bit more control. So where were the players that can do that. Kobbie Mainoo maybe? Yes, if need be.
But someone like Cole Palmer, who has that kind of swagger and arrogance to say give me the ball.
The way Tadic came on for the Serbs. He came on and he was like give me the ball, I’ll be an outlet for you guys.” Ferdinand Says….
A lack of control and composure saw Serbia dominate the second half, with England frequently losing possession, much to the dismay of Ferdinand.
England will next face Denmark, who drew 1-1 with Slovenia earlier in the day, on Thursday evening. Southgate thinks the challenging match against Serbia, where England had to endure long periods without the ball, will ultimately benefit his team and help build their confidence throughout the tournament.
