Gareth Southgate can lay claim to being the most attacking England manager ever – and he has the goals to prove it. His 95 matches have produced 217 goals at an average of 2.28 goals per game, surpassing even Sir Alf Ramsey’s England. But despite this prolific scoring record, near misses like the World Cup semi-final loss to Croatia in 2018 and the penalty shootout defeat against Italy at the last Euros have left lasting scars and critics complaining that the team he has created is capable of more.

With an arsenal of striking talent at his disposal, including the likes of Harry Kane, Southgate is under pressure to fully unleash the potential of this Golden Generation. However, problems with form, fitness, and inexperience elsewhere in the team suggest a need for England to play with the brakes off and trust in their natural abilities. Southgate’s squad selection reflects a willingness to take risks, with the potential for deploying Alexander-Arnold at right-back and asking Walker to play inside.

The England manager’s approach may be influenced by the need to carefully manage the fitness of certain players, such as Stones, through the tournament. Looking ahead to the Euros, the key to success will be Southgate’s ability to harness the attacking prowess of his squad and lead them to victory on the international stage.