In a thrilling encounter on September 4, 2017, England secured a 2-1 victory over Slovakia in a World Cup qualifier at Wembley Stadium. This match, which saw goals scored by Eric Dier and Marcus Rashford, was a critical step in England’s journey towards qualifying for the 2018 World Cup. Fast forward to the Euro 2024, only two players from that day – Marcus Rashford and Harry Maguire – are still part of the squad. Let’s take a deeper dive into what happened to the starting 11 from that memorable match.
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Starting between the posts was Joe Hart, then England’s number one goalkeeper. Hart was a pivotal player at the time, but his career has seen significant changes since. After a series of loan spells and transfers, he now plays for Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. His experience has added value to the Scottish giants, though his days with the national team have come to a close.
Defensively, the team featured Kyle Walker, John Stones, Gary Cahill, and Ryan Bertrand. Kyle Walker continues to be an essential figure for Manchester City, contributing both defensively and offensively. John Stones, another Manchester City stalwart, remains in peak form and is one of the most reliable defenders for both club and country. Gary Cahill, on the other hand, retired from professional football in November 2021 after his stint with Crystal Palace. Ryan Bertrand moved to Leicester City in 2021 but has struggled with injuries, reducing his impact on the team.
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In the midfield, Eric Dier and Jordan Henderson provided the solidity and leadership crucial to England’s gameplay. Eric Dier still plies his trade for Tottenham Hotspur, maintaining his versatile role as a defender and midfielder. Jordan Henderson continues to captain Liverpool, bringing his wealth of experience to the team’s midfield. Their careers have been marked by consistency and a level of professionalism that new players often look up to.
The attacking midfield that day consisted of Dele Alli, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Raheem Sterling. Dele Alli, once a prodigious talent, has seen his career take a less predictable path. After falling out of favor at Tottenham, he joined Everton but has struggled to find his best form. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has endured several injury setbacks but remains a valued squad member at Liverpool, known for his versatility and dynamism. Raheem Sterling is arguably the player who has enjoyed the highest form and accolades since that game, securing numerous domestic titles with Manchester City and later moving to Chelsea.
Leading the attack was Marcus Rashford, who scored the winning goal against Slovakia. Rashford has since established himself as a significant figure for Manchester United and the national team, recognized for both his footballing talent and his off-field philanthropy. His journey since that game has been nothing short of inspiring, making him a role model on and off the pitch.
On the managerial front, Gareth Southgate has remained at the helm, guiding England with a steady hand. Under his management, England has reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020, showcasing a period of renaissance for English football.
While the team sheet from 2017 has largely changed, the lessons and experiences from that victory over Slovakia have undoubtedly shaped the current squad. As only Marcus Rashford and Harry Maguire remain from that lineup, it’s evident that the national team has undergone a significant transformation, prioritizing youth and dynamism. This period of transition reflects on the broader strategy of evolving England into a world-class footballing nation. With young talents emerging and seasoned players providing the necessary backbone, the England team faces the future with optimism and vigor.
In conclusion, the 2017 match against Slovakia not only marked a pivotal victory on England’s road to the 2018 World Cup but also served as a symbolic transition point. New stars have emerged, guided by experienced hands, showcasing the depth and resilience of English football. As fans look forward to the Euro 2024, there is a collective hope that the blend of youth and experience in the current squad will script new chapters of glory for the Three Lions.
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