Gareth Southgate’s England side rose from behind to beat Italy 3-1 at Wembley Stadium and qualify for Euro 2024. They had trailed early after Gianluca Scamacca had scored, but Harry Kane leveled with a penalty before Marcus Rashford scored two more past Donnarumma.
Bellingham has provided much-needed stability to this squad alongside Kieran Trippier, John Stones and Kyle Walker.
Harry Kane
England’s record goal scorer, having passed Teddy Sheringham along the way, once more showed why he is considered one of the finest centre-forwards worldwide. His ability to drop deep and spray passes left and right are assets, but what really sets him apart are his hold-up play and instincts in penalty areas.
After taking the lead with an expertly taken penalty after being brought down by Matthew Guillaumier, Kane struck again from the penalty spot to put away Gianluigi Donnarumma from Adam Wilson’s cross that struck Steve Borg in the 77th minute.
Bellingham once more made his presence felt, showing an array of skills and surprising Italy with his intelligent movement. He made clever use of space by positioning himself for crosses rather than going on running rampages – something any centre-forward should possess as part of their skill set.
Marcus Rashford
England have never lacked for talented forwards over time, yet few can match Bellingham’s assurance as England’s new No 9. He brings something different than Manchester United’s more celebrated names from his era, making his unique qualities even more noticeable.
He is constantly on the move, seeking small advantages against Italy through high presses or deft touches. Additionally, he displays the kind of fearlessness which transforms worthy opponents into tournament champions.
He played an integral part in Rashford’s opening goal and also received Kieran Trippier’s thundering header when the hosts broke again, and has been an outstanding presence so far, providing much-needed depth in this team and being one of the reasons Jose Mourinho will keep tabs on him closely.
Kieran Trippier
England finally came away victorious in their clash against a major nation since being defeated on penalties at Wembley by Germany a decade ago, thanks to Harry Kane’s double and Marcus Rashford’s impressive strike. Gareth Southgate was inspired by Harry’s double and Marcus Rashford’s incredible goal.
Kieran Trippier was the true standout, providing a superbly executed corner that led directly to Rashford scoring his second. Additionally, Trippier set up his third goal with an exquisite pass for Rashford to strike home his fourth.
Trippier was also superb at the back, keeping things tidy while showing his ability to split open low blocks and produce powerful set pieces. His partnership with Bellingham could form an amazing full-back trio alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold that could prove decades ahead of their time; all it needs is for all three players to gel.
Declan Rice
Gareth Southgate’s side fought back to beat Italy 3-1 at Wembley, sealing their qualification for Euro 2024 with two matches still left to spare. Although trailing early after Gianluca Scamacca scored, Harry Kane led England back with two crucial goals of his own – first via converted penalty kick, and later following Marcus Rashford’s breakaway run and finish for another strike from Rashford himself.
Rice often operates unseen for England, yet his work in possession is essential. He slows down opposition attacks with deft positioning and can force play towards the wings when necessary.
Rice initially represented Ireland at international level; then switched allegiances in 2019, signing for England instead and now leading Arsenal’s midfield for years to come despite only playing 21 senior games with them! That alone is quite an achievement!
Paul Merson
England came back from an early deficit to defeat Italy 3-1 at Wembley Stadium and secure qualification for Euro 2024 qualification with ease. Jude Bellingham stole the show, winning a penalty kick and setting up Marcus Rashford for their second goal of the match.
Midfielder Danny Welbeck looks set to become England’s next true world class player following an impressive showing against Italy on Tuesday night, with pundits hailing his performance like Paul Gascoigne did back when. Paul Gascoigne even likened Welbeck’s talents back then!
But Newcastle striker, James Longstaff is aware of his need to play regular club football if he wishes to pursue international ambitions and could leave Etihad Stadium this January in search of regular first team action with another club such as Juventus – for example.