Until the 75th minute all that separated Gareth Southgate's lacklustre side from 171st-ranked Malta was an early own goal by Enrico Pepe and they endured some anxious moments in between. But there was precious little to get enthused about as several England fringe players failed to shine in Southgate's 90th match in charge. England had already qualified for the Germany showpiece and victory over Malta ensured they top Group C, regardless of what happens in their match away to North Macedonia on Monday. A point in North Macedonia should ensure England are amongst the top six seeds for Euro 2024. "The number of games these players are playing, it's almost a self-regulation, sub-consciously you do just enough to win."

Source: Egypt Today November 18, 2023 21:57 UTC