England's Unscathed Stars Shine as Managerial Pressure Mounts on Republic of Ireland's Stephen Kenny

England understudies jostle but star roles not under threat

Ollie Watkins demonstrated his potential with a decisive match-winning goal, while Lewis Dunk and Sam Johnstone showcased their goal-saving abilities. However, despite the intense competition among England's backup players, the star players remained unthreatened by the performances witnessed on Friday night.

Watkins posed a constant threat to the Australian defense, making penetrating runs and narrowly missing a goal by striking the post in the first half. His battle, however, lies with Callum Wilson and Eddie Nketiah, rather than Harry Kane. Presently, Watkins appears to be at the forefront of the contenders vying to deputize for the England captain when the need arises.

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Ollie Watkins secures victory against Australia

Likewise, Dunk is expected to be replaced by Harry Maguire and John Stones, provided they are fit, as Gareth Southgate reverts to a traditional back four. Jordan Pickford retains the top spot as goalkeeper, owing to his significant contributions throughout Southgate's tenure.

Hybrid Trent giving Southgate options

Opportunities Missed by England's Young Players

Despite the presence of talented individuals like Levi Colwill, Conor Gallagher, and Jarrod Bowen on the field, the fringe and emerging young players of England failed to capitalize on their chance. Their performances lacked the necessary substance to persuade Southgate into reconsidering his plans for Tuesday night's clash against Italy. This victory taught Southgate a valuable lesson.

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Trent Alexander-Arnold's name has been catching attention in recent England squads. Previously categorized as a midfielder, there was anticipation that he would seize another opportunity to demonstrate his skills in the midfield against Australia.

However, the Liverpool defender was designated as the right-back position, yet right from the initial moment, it was clearly evident that he seamlessly transitioned into midfield, assuming the hybrid role he has consistently fulfilled for his club throughout this season.

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Alexander-Arnold's cross played a part in Ollie Watkins' winning goal for England

Despite a lack of shining lights for the Three Lions on that particular night, Alexander-Arnold's impressive ball skills and confidence provided Gareth Southgate with food for thought as he finalizes his preparations for Euro 2024. Despite the challenging midfield tactics employed by Australia, who applied pressure and organization, England struggled to find their rhythm. However, Alexander-Arnold's unwavering determination to consistently involve himself in play and dictate the game should not go unnoticed.

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He did have a hand in England's eventual winner with an accurate deep cross for Jack Grealish, whose shot was tapped in by Ollie Watkins.

Is Kenny's time up?

It turned out to be one of Alexander-Arnold's final contributions in the right back position before he transitioned into midfield for the remaining 30 minutes of the match. This display of talent and versatility could be crucial for Southgate when the tournament arrives. Oliver Yew

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Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny is facing increasing pressure following a disappointing Euro 2024 qualification campaign. Former Republic of Ireland international Stephen Kelly commented on We News about Stephen Kenny's future as the Ireland boss after their 2-0 home loss to Greece, which dashed their hopes of automatic qualification for Euro 2024.

When Stephen Kenny took charge, there was immense optimism surrounding his appointment as a manager from the domestic league. Everyone was hoping for his success.

He adopted a philosophy of revolutionizing Irish football by implementing a possession-based playing style and initiating play from the back. While this concept is commendable and aligns with the current trends in the game, it unfortunately has not yielded the desired results.

Observing Greece's performance in tonight's game, it is evident that they played with ease. Ireland, on the other hand, failed to present any significant challenge to them, despite having capable players. The team seemed to lack a distinctive style and progressive mindset.

Even though Ireland switched to a four-man defense, there was a noticeable absence of unity and creative play.

Moving ahead, it is my opinion that after this campaign concludes, it is highly unlikely that Kenny will continue as the manager. Currently, it seems that the organization is already considering potential candidates for the future, although there are a few remaining games. Is it possible for him to reverse the situation? I believe the chances of that happening are quite low.

Agony for Scotland as Euro wait continues

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Scott McTominay's goal was ruled out by VAR

Scotland received applause from the supportive crowd as they left the field. However, the pain of coming so close to a momentous victory will linger.

Having achieved five consecutive wins, the team understood that a draw would be sufficient to guarantee their spot in Germany next summer.

After losing captain Andrew Robertson to a shoulder injury, Scotland's team, led by Steve Clarke, fought hard. However, their spirits were dampened when VAR disallowed Scott McTominay's opening goal, causing great disappointment. The Scots were left disheartened.

Spain has the opportunity to assist them on Sunday night by securing a positive result against Norway in Oslo.

Porteous is impervious as Scots go so close

Furthermore, it was a bitter blow for the entire Scottish team when Spain scored their second goal in Seville to secure their triumph on Thursday evening.

Ryan Porteous' desperate slide inadvertently redirected the ball towards the Athletics Bilbao midfielder and beyond Angus Gunn, a heart-wrenching outcome. Throughout the entire evening, the Watford defender fearlessly sacrificed his body, utilizing both his aerial superiority and ground skills to prevent Spain, particularly the elusive Alvaro Morata, from exerting their usual dominance in the opposing team's penalty area.

Spain have been on a scoring spree, netting 15 goals in the last four games after their goalless draw at Hampden Park in March. Although two of those games were against weaker opponents, Georgia and Cyprus, we can expect disorganized teams to suffer against them. Scotland successfully employed a defensive strategy to limit Spain's attacking opportunities, but the back three, especially Porteous, had to stay alert throughout the game, dealing with long balls, crosses, and set-piece challenges from the hosts.

Porteous has only played in seven matches so far, but he seems to belong confidently in Clarke's defensive lineup. Unless any unexpected surprises occur during the qualification period, he has the potential to be a valuable player for his manager in Germany next summer.