Cole Palmer informed Gareth Southgate that he is ready to resume his place in England’s starting XI after earning accolades from Roy Keane for his outstanding cameo in England’s 0-0 draw with Slovenia.
England finished first in Group C with five points, but produced another lackluster effort in a goalless draw with Slovenia on Tuesday evening.
As a consequence, Southgate’s squad will face one of the best third-placed teams in the last 16 coming Sunday at 5pm, which could be the Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, Ukraine, or Belgium.
Palmer made his first appearance in this summer’s tournament, replacing Bukayo Saka in the 71st minute, and Chelsea‘s talisman instantly became England’s main offensive danger.
Speaking in the ITV studio after the victory, Keane stated that Southgate would be under ‘great pressure’ to start Palmer in England’s next game, and the 22-year-old indicated he would welcome the opportunity.
‘It’s always wonderful to hear, especially from someone like Roy Keane, who has played internationally and for Manchester United,’ Palmer added of the Irishman’s remarks. ‘It is now up to the manager to decide what he will do.
‘I believe wholeheartedly. After this season, I don’t see why I should be down. I’ll just try to seize every opportunity and make an impact.
Palmer said of his cameo in general, “It was exciting – I really enjoyed it.” I just tried to play my game when I logged on, and I believe I did. I try to generate chances and be positive.’
Southgate is also facing suggestions to start Kobbie Mainoo in England’s last-16 clash this weekend after the Manchester United midfielder also excelled coming off the bench.
However, the Three Lions boss provided no hint in his post-match press conference as to whether either will start on Sunday.
When asked about Palmer’s performance following England’s draw, Southgate said, ‘He showed what he’s been doing in training.
‘I believe with him and Kobbie, we had in mind to get them into the game tonight because they provide something new.
WHO ENGLAND COULD PLAY IN THE LAST-16?
As Group C winners: Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, Ukraine or Belgium.
England’s last-16 tie will take place in Gelsenkirchen at 5pm on Sunday.
‘We wanted to start with Conor [Gallagher] because we thought it would help us press better, and we hadn’t won the ball high enough up the pitch.
‘We weren’t able to get his forward runs, which can exploit opposing defenders, so he had to receive a little deeper.
‘Therefore, it was reasonable to put Kobbie into the game, who has various qualities and can link the game via midfield, so we’re really happy with that.
‘In the end, we almost had a goal when [Anthony] Gordon, Mainoo, and Palmer connected, and it was a fantastic piece of play.
‘It’s critical that the players that come in understand they will be given opportunities if they continue to practice the way they are; they are doing an excellent job for the club.
‘We know we have some strong alternatives for changing games, which is especially important given the five substitutes.