Only two players have scored in a European Championship semi-final for #ENG
EURO 1996: Alan Shearer#EURO2020: Harry Kane
England’s No.9s delivering on the big stage. ? pic.twitter.com/qT6K6PQHsQ
— Squawka (@Squawka) July 7, 2021
Despite the iconic World Cup triumph in 1966, over the years, England fans haven’t had too much to celebrate. There has been some notable progress in more recent times, though, but despite some individuals standing out, the Three Lions haven’t lifted any major silverware since the likes of Bobby Moore did on that unforgettable occasion.
Individuals need to step up for England
With UEFA Euro 2024 kicking off on Friday 14 June, England’s players will be hoping to finally get the job done and deliver glory to a nation who desperately craves it. While respected pundits are predicting big things and odds for the EUROs suggest Gareth Southgate’s troops are ready to go far, with England currently priced as favourites at 3/1, it’s still going to be a tough task for the team in Germany.
Some of England’s key players certainly need to step up if the team is to reign supreme. The hosts, who will also feel the strain, will be aiming for something similar, with Die Mannschaft currently priced at 11/2 when looking at EUROs outrights betting. England’s line-up is filled with far more quality, though, and they’re understandable favourites heading into what promises to be a feast of football.
Despite the promising signs for England fans, pressure will undoubtedly play a part during the competition. It’s something that has stifled a number of star players over the years. Thankfully, though, many players have also taken it in their stride and delivered the goods on the biggest stages for England. Let’s salute some of them below.
Alan Shearer shone at the 1996 European Championships
With the likes of Harry Kane hoping to fire England to glory in Germany, the Bayern Munich goal-getter can take inspiration from Alan Shearer’s 1996 performances. Plying his trade for Blackburn Rovers at the time, Shearer was heading into the competition in mixed form. For his club, the striker scored a record 31 Premier League goals, but an international drought lasting over 12 games left many doubting Shearer.
Luckily, Terry Venables ignored the noise and stuck by his man. It’s a decision that paid off, as Shearer scored after 23 minutes in England’s first game, before going on to bag a goal in every other group game from there. England eventually went out of the tournament on
