Gareth Southgate reveals the reasons for not using substitution

DBasia.news – The manager of the England national team, Gareth Southgate, revealed the reason for not making substitutions when the Three Lions drew 1-1 against Poland in the 2022 World Cup qualifying Group I match, at the Warsaw National Stadium, Thursday (9/9) am, WIB.

England faced a difficult match at the headquarters of Poland. Despite having taken the lead through Harry Kane’s goal in the 72nd minute, England conceded in the final minutes. Damian Szymanski scored in injury time.

Despite playing a tough and intense match, Gareth Southgate did not make substitutions. Apparently, he had a special reason.

“We played well and were in control. At that time, it wasn’t easy coming on as a substitute and we wouldn’t be fielding players for that,” said Southgate.

According to Opta Joe, it was the first time England had not made a substitution in a match since the 1996 European Cup semi-final against Germany.

“We’re in complete control. So no problem. Why bother when you’re in control?” continued the manager.

The draw ended England’s record of 100 percent victories in Group I. Now, England are four points ahead of Albania in second place.

Southgate did not deny that this match was the toughest test after being defeated by Italy in the Euro 2020 final in a penalty shootout.

“No wonder it’s the most difficult game in the group. At the start of the game, we were a little slow in moving the ball. Poland pressed us well,” said Southgate.

“As half-time went by, we started to take control of the game and gained more control without making any really clear chances, other than Harry Kane’s header.”

“In the second half we controlled the game. If there is criticism that we didn’t create enough chances from possession it was because we didn’t have enough players in the opponent’s penalty box,” stated Southgate.