Michael Owen has expressed disappointment with several England players at the World Cup, despite the team reaching the semi-finals. The former striker, who scored 40 goals in 89 England caps, highlighted technical flaws and a lack of control in midfield after the Three Lions narrowly beat Norway 2-1 in extra time.
England's Rocky Road to the Semi-Finals
England's World Cup campaign has been marked by inconsistent performances. After a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in Miami, secured by two Jude Bellingham goals, England set up a semi-final clash with Argentina. Argentina themselves needed extra time to beat Switzerland 3-1. The other semi-final sees France take on Spain.
England have shown only brief periods of excellence, against Croatia and Mexico, while struggling against Ghana, Panama, DR Congo, and for large parts of the Norway game. Owen, writing in the Daily Mail, said: 'I went against the grain after Mexico when I highlighted the technical flaws of the team performance... What did happen next? They were played off the park by Norway for large periods and couldn't get control of the game. It was exactly as I feared.'
Owen's Concerns and Hopes for Improvement
Owen believes England's struggles stem from defensive opponents, but expects Argentina's attacking style to suit England better. He also trusts key players Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane to deliver. However, he criticised the wingers for a lack of goals and the midfield's inability to retain possession.
'The scary thought is, I believe we will see another level again to Bellingham in Atlanta,' Owen said. 'If any player will rise to that occasion, it will be him. What we need is everyone else to go with him. Kane is a guarantee — but can the wingers finally chip in with some goals? Can the midfield keep the ball for more than a few passes?'
Owen added: 'I've been fairly unimpressed by a lot of what I've seen from England so far, but I also know how football works. The biggest games have a habit of bringing the biggest performances, especially from the biggest players. That is why Tuchel was right not to sugar-coat Norway.'
Tuchel's Honest Assessment
England manager Thomas Tuchel was critical of his team's quality against Norway, calling them lucky. Owen supported Tuchel's approach, saying: 'His players didn't need protecting. They needed reminding that there is another level. Criticism isn't always a warning. Sometimes it's a challenge. England can answer that against Argentina.'
