During England’s victory over Serbia, a harsh 3/10 rating was handed to John Stones as Europe ruled Gareth Southgate’s team.
In their tight opening Euro 2024 encounter in the Veltins-Arena, the Three Lions prevailed over their rivals.
John Stones was harshly judged by French mediaCredit: Rex
Harry Kane had a quiet game by his standardsCredit: Getty
Jude Bellingham was England’s standout playerCredit: Getty
With Jude Bellingham scoring the game-winning goal, Southgate’s team triumphed 1-0.
Nonetheless, the perspective from Europe was utterly contemptuous of the Three Lions’ display.
Stones, 30, received a dismal 3/10 from French publication L’Equipe for his performance.
Prior to the match, the Manchester City defender had been feeling under the weather.
To prevent the rest of the group from becoming ill from Stones’ illness, he had been confined to his room.
On Friday, he was able to resume training and was well enough to be selected for the starting lineup.
He did not do enough to make an impression, but he did contribute to the team’s clean sheet against Serbia.
According to L’Equipe, he had “multiplied his blunders” and found it difficult to handle Dusan Vlahovic, a striker for Juventus.
Harry Kane, the captain, did not impress the publication either.
Predrag Rajkovic stopped the striker from scoring as he was having trouble differentiating himself against the Serbians.
The star of Bayern Munich received a 5/10 for his understated performance.
Kieran Trippier, Marc Guehi, and Phil Foden received the same score.
Kyle Walker and Jordan Pickford did little better, scoring a 6/10.
Bellingham, who received a 7/10, was the team’s best player.
Trent Alexander-Arnold received accolades from L’Equipe for his midfield performance.
The article praised his “precise crosses and passes” and the “quality” of his set pieces.
Bukayo Saka was also singled out for some praise as “carried out a series of astonishing dribbles along his line.”
Saka and Alexander-Arnold received sixes.
The fact that Bellingham was “the only one who stands out” was another factor that intrigued German publication Bild.
The display was seen as a “very weak performance from the English” by former Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker.
According to the site, the Three Lions must “step up their game” if they hope to win the European Championship.
In Spain, both Marca and Mundo Deportivo agreed that Bellingham was the standout player and that there was “little else” to the team.
England, according to Mundo Deportivo, were “dull” and will have a “tough time” playing better teams.
