Rio Ferdinand believes that if Kobbie Mainoo and Cole Palmer had been brought in earlier, England would have had greater control following their unimpressive win over Serbia in Euro 2024.

Jude Bellingham’s incredible header gave the Three Lions the lead in the first 13 minutes of their group match on Sunday night, and they looked eager for more during a dominant first half.

But as Serbia grew more competitive in the second half, they were no longer in control of the game. To keep his team ahead, Jordan Pickford needed to produce an amazing last-minute save.

Mainoo was also called up from the bench with 86 minutes remaining, and Conor Gallagher entered the game with 20 minutes remaining in an attempt to help his team regain control.

And he merely left two accurate passes as his only trace.

Chelsea star Palmer did not get on the pitch with former Southampton and Ajax star Dusan Tadic shining for Serbia off the bench as they chased an equaliser.

Pondering why England couldn’t make changes that delivered a similar impact, former Manchester United and England star Ferdinand questioned why Mainoo and Palmer didn’t have a bigger role to play.

After the game, Ferdinand told BBC One, “The game needed a bit more control.”

“Where are the players who possess that ability?” Maybe, Kobbie Mainoo, but come on, a little early if necessary.

However, there are also those like Cole Palmer who exude a certain swagger and attitude that makes them exclaim, “Give me that ball.” When Tadic entered the game for Serbia, he stated, “Give me the ball; I’ll be that outlet for you guys.”

When England plays Slovenia and Denmark in their next group stage matches, Mainoo will be hoping to contribute more.

Cesc Fabregas, on the other hand, expressed disappointment with England’s performance in the second half and said Southgate would have sent a different message to the team had he made a more offensive move.

“As a player, you will feel it if you send the message by adding a defensive midfielder or an extra defender to cover the result,” stated Fabregas.

Mentally, you begin to regress and lose more. However, I believe the players become lot more at ease if you put an offensive player, like Palmer, up the pitch and in charge of the ball in the last third.

On Thursday night, England’s group campaign against Denmark continues.