The sun looks set to shine on England’s footballers on Tuesday night; literally, at least. After 10 days of downpours and hanging cloud at Euro 2024, there are clear skies expected and temperatures of about 25C (77F) when the Three Lions step on to the field to face Slovenia in Cologne. Whether supporters get a performance to match the weather very much remains to be seen.
Four days of criticism and introspection have followed a turgid 1-1 draw against Denmark, a performance that leaves England looking anything but contenders for the title they are openly pursuing. It was hardly an unfamiliar experience, reminiscent of the group-stage encounter with USA in Qatar less than two years ago. But that has not stopped the pressure from piling up on Gareth Southgate and his team, who reached the last 16 on Monday night without playing after Albania were beaten by Spain.
