KUALA LUMPUR: Former national coach Datuk K. Rajagobal believes that the Three Lions will get back their bite when they meet Denmark in a Euro 2024 Group C match in Frankfurt tomorrow.
England, though touted as Euro 2024 contenders, looked patchy in their 1-0 win over Serbia last week
However, Rajagobal believes that Gareth Southgate's men will find their groove against the Danes.
He said being one of the favourites brings added pressure, which probably weighed down England in their opening match against Serbia,
"When you are the favourite because you have good players and a good manager, it brings pressure. England had a good first half against Serbia but could only score one goal.
"Looking at the reality of a tournament, the second game is usually where a team's real performance can be seen. The players would have settled down after a jittery opening game.
"I think England is the favourite to win due to their attacking quality. But it's not going to be an easy game for them because Denmark is a good side too despite not having any big stars. The match will probably end with a narrow win for England."
Rajagobal said England's attacking players, including Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, are world-class and have the ability to unlock tight defences.
He said Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand would probably take a defensive approach. "I think the Denmark coach won't worry too much as there's no pressure on them. They will be relaxed and try to attack England's weaknesses. I believe they will aim to play simply and not complicate things.
"We saw how Serbia used their physicality well against England, but England still won the match, so it will not be an issue. I think in the second round or the knockout stage, we will see the real performance of the teams."