Please enable JavaScript to experience the full functionality of GMX.

Roy Keane slams England’s players for lack of urgency ahead of World Cup

Roy Keane slams England’s players for lack of urgency ahead of World Cup

Roy Keane has criticised England’s players for a lack of urgency and togetherness following their 3–1 defeat to Senegal – warning “the signs aren’t great” just a year out from the World Cup.

The 52-year-old former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland captain was speaking as part of ITV’s post-match panel alongside Mark Pougatch and Ian Wright, where he delivered a scathing assessment of England’s recent display at the City Ground.

Keane said: “Both of the first two goals (England) conceded, I don’t see them getting hold of each other. “You don’t throw each other under the bus but you start shouting at each other, telling them to do their job. For the second goal, they are having a chat like they are in Starbucks.

“They’re all saying, ‘Maybe I should have gone for that.’ Do your job! That is what good teammates do. Do your job or we are in trouble.”

England’s defeat was their first ever to an African nation and came after a sluggish win over Andorra earlier in the week.

Concerns are now growing over morale and tactical cohesion with the World Cup looming.

The match also marked the latest in a run of underwhelming performances for the Three Lions, prompting scrutiny of both players and management.

Keane added: “On one hand, you don’t want to overreact. But the signs aren’t great. It’s been a bad couple of days for England. They won (against Andorra) but you felt the rhythm wasn’t there. I think the manager will be concerned.

“I look at this England group, I think there’s something amiss. To me they don’t look like a happy group. Are they really all in it together? Is there proper spirit amongst the group? I’m not so sure.”

The criticism extended to individual performances, including that of 34-year-old Kyle Walker.

The AC Milan right-back was singled out for his role in allowing Ismaila Sarr to equalise for Senegal after England had taken the lead.

Keane said: “If this is a young right-back starting out in the game you’re thinking inexperience. I think he has been lazy.

“He is a vastly experienced defender and he doesn’t bother getting back in.

“You tell defenders get back in. He’s just on his heels and he almost can’t be bothered getting back. I know he’s had a difficult few months but for a vastly experienced player you can’t be making mistakes like that.”

England manager Thomas Tuchel, 50, now has the summer to assess his options ahead of a World Cup qualifier at home to Andorra.

The national team is then due to face Serbia away on 9 September.

Sponsored Content

Related Headlines