Alan Shearer has commented on the performance of Ezri Konsa as the defender made his first start for England at Euro 2024 in their quarter-final victory over Switzerland.
It was Ezri Konsa who was presented with a big opportunity with Marc Guehi suspended for the tie after collecting a second yellow card of the tournament against Slovakia in the last 16.
It appeared to be a slightly daunting task for the Aston Villa defender, with the Three Lions hardly proving to be particularly impressive in the first four games of the tournament – while the Swiss had won a lot of admirers on their run to the last eight. And of course, they had Breel Embolo leading the line.
Embolo did manage to find the back of the net in the latter stages of the game, but Bukayo Saka was able to bail England out with an equaliser shortly after. And the penalty shootout saw Gareth Southgate’s men produce the kind of quality they have lacked from open play in this tournament.
Alan Shearer comments on Ezri Konsa’s display in England win
And speaking on The Rest Is Football, Shearer shared his thoughts on the performance of Konsa.
“I thought Konsa played well. He had a really good battle with Embolo, slightly unlucky with the one where the cross goes through his legs and then he’s there to tap it in. But in the main he played really well,” he said.
Impressive statistics from Aston Villa star
Embolo is arguably a perfect striker for tournament football, as he is clearly incredibly gifted; with an ability to brilliantly hold up the ball, while also possessing fantastic quality with his feet. Unfortunately, injuries have largely halted his progress at club level.
But the danger he provides when he stays fit was made clear on Saturday – and Konsa was largely able to cope with the striker.
That is particularly impressive when you consider how little the 26-year-old has played at this tournament. He completed 46 of his 47 passes, while he also made seven clearances, according to Whoscored.
Perhaps he is likely to come back out of the team for the semi-final, but you would imagine that Gareth Southgate would have few concerns if the Villa man is needed again.