Sheffield Wednesday must take note of England and their struggles under Gareth Southgate this summer.
England drew 0-0 against Slovenia on Tuesday night, meaning that the Three Lions have won their group in Euro 2024.
But manager Gareth Southgate has faced increasing criticism for his side’s negative style of play and inability to score.
Southgate has also come under the spotlight for his tactical naivety and reluctance to change shapes and styles that aren’t garnering results.
Harry Kane has been a figure of debate during this tournament; he scored the opening goal in the 1-1 draw vs Denmark last week, but in each of the three group games he’s looked lethargic.
Guardian handed him a 5/10 rating for his performance vs Slovenia, adding: “The captain still looks off the pace. Touch was heavy, movement was laboured. Never threatened.”
Kane has led the line in each of the three group games so far, coming off the back of a 2023/24 campaign in which he played 45 games for Bayern Munich.
Meanwhile, Southgate really only has one natural no.9 within the rest of his team; Ivan Toney.
Sheffield Wednesday must bolster striker department this summer
As things stand, Sheffield Wednesday have just Bailey Cadamarteri, Michael Smith, and Mallik Wilks as their striker options for next season.
West Brom have made contact with Josh Windass, who looks increasingly likely to leave as a free agent, whilst reports have played down the chances of a return for Ike Ugbo.
Danny Rohl’s side have been linked with a number of strikers including Duncan McGuire, Mika Biereth, and more recently Sory Kaba, who’s viewed as a cheaper alternative to Ugbo.
Many fans will argue that Rohl needs at least two new strikers this summer, unless Windass stays in S6 for another season.
Failing to sign bodies up front will mean that Sheffield Wednesday have to place their focus on one striker, likely Smith more often than not.
And in a high-pressing and fast-paced set up, Smith would quickly tire if he’s forced to lead the line week in, week out.
That would leave the Owls with a similar problem to what England and Southgate are experiencing now with Kane.
Rohl, who’s been working as a pundit at this summer’s Euros tournament, can take a lot of lessons from England and their struggles so far this summer.
The key note should be that he needs plenty of attacking options this summer, if he wants his high-pressing game to be effective throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
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