The lack of a cohesive press was another concern highlighted by pundits ahead of the final group match against Slovenia in Cologne on Tuesday night. Despite their lacklustre display, England are top of Group C on four points and can guarantee top spot with victory over Slovenia. Rice took a different approach with the media by speaking honestly about the pressure the players are under. “We are all so desperate to do the country proud,” he said.

“We are all so desperate to win, to be leaders, to go out there and give people memories for lifetimes and sometimes I maybe feel like we put too much pressure on ourselves where we could just go out there and let it just take care of ourselves. “Comment below. If you look at the goals that our front four have scored this year, it’s over 100 between them. And that goes for everyone throughout the team.

“There’s going to be that pressure. This is England, a major tournament. But, look, this is our job and this is what we have to deal with. At the end of the day it’s us, we’ve played in high-pressure games, high-pressure environments.”

Had they beaten Denmark, England would have already been assured of top spot in Group C and could have rotated their squad against Slovenia.

But although they remain in command of their own destiny, a result is needed on Tuesday against a side who are unbeaten, having drawn against Denmark and Serbia. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like.