Five things we learned as Kane treble helps England rout Panama

It’s an area that has been highlighted by Southgate and Steve Holland as one where the team can gain an advantage over opponents. And so far it’s proving correct.

Worries remain at the back

For all of England’s positive play going forward, worries remain over a shaky backline. Panama were gifted several chances as a result of sloppy play at the back in Nizhny Novgorod. Their goal came about thanks to slack marking at a set-piece.

The Three Lions will face far tougher opposition than the Panamanians in Russia. They’ll need to tighten things up and ensure their passing game is the best it can be or they will be punished. Belgium should provide a far sterner test of the nation’s defensive resolve.

Trippier and Lingard are shining

Kane has rightly been grabbing the headlines in light of his incredible goalscoring exploits. But it wouldn’t be possible without the help of the supporting cast. Kieran Trippier and Jesse Lingard, in particular, have shone so far at this World Cup.

The latter of the pair is a constant menace going forward and was targeted by Panama from minute one because of the impact he has on this England side. Trippier provides solidity down the right and has become the go to man from dead ball situations.

Loftus-Cheek shows strength-in-depth

Part of England’s problem in the past has been their inability to switch things up if a player gets injured. Dele Alli’s thigh strain threatened to disrupt the rhythm, structure and dynamism of this Three Lions side.

But Ruben Loftus-Cheek stepped in and showed us that he’s every bit a World Cup player. The Chelsea man drove forward, created space and displayed the sort of attitude that could well see him retain his place against Belgium at the expense of Alli.

Southgate knows he has options off the bench. That not only means England can change things if it’s not working. It also means that every member of the squad is on their toes in the knowledge that there’s someone behind them who could take their place.

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