Jarrod Bowen has expressed that the atmosphere within the England camp remains “really high” despite a lackluster start to their Euro 2024 campaign.
The Three Lions, after narrowly clinching a 1-0 victory over Serbia, delivered a subdued and uninspired performance resulting in a 1-1 draw against Denmark in Frankfurt on Thursday.
England has the opportunity to clinch the top spot in Group C and secure a last-16 tie against a third-placed finisher by defeating Slovenia in Cologne on Tuesday (20:00 BST).
However, if Gareth Southgate’s side finishes as runners-up, they could potentially face Germany, provided the tournament hosts secure the top spot in Group A.
Following the Denmark game, there has been criticism of Southgate and his team’s performances from former England players.
But Bowen, speaking on Saturday, said the squad were “trying not to get involved in the outside world”.
“We have a real tight group, a real togetherness,” said the West Ham forward, who has come on as a substitute in both games, playing a total of 35 minutes at the tournament.
“We’re still in control of our own destiny. We’re calm about it. The mood is really high. We’re not bottom with two defeats. We’re still in a really good position.”
Those questioning England’s performances have included former captain Alan Shearer, who said after the Denmark game: “I don’t think there is a plan. There’s a complete lack of energy, I don’t know if anyone knows whether to come or to sit.”
And Wayne Rooney, who scored 53 times in 120 England appearances, said “the players have to take responsibility”.
Bowen added: “I try not to get caught up in the outside world, the same as club level.
“Football is a game of opinions – there will be highs and lows but it’s about sticking together.
“We’re a team of winners. We want to win and achieve something.”
‘There’s a lot of noise’
England currently holds four points from two games. Historically, no team with four points has failed to progress to the knockout stage of the Euros.
Nevertheless, England’s tactics at Euro 2024 have faced criticism from fans, with calls for Southgate to implement changes against Slovenia. This comes after he opted for unchanged starting XIs in consecutive games.
Cole Palmer, who boasted 22 Premier League goals and 11 assists, has yet to see any playing time, while Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon has also remained sidelined.
Despite the scrutiny, full-back Kieran Trippier affirmed that the squad’s morale remains upbeat and positive.
“We could be more happy, but the most important thing is that we stay together,” added the Newcastle defender, who won his 50th cap against Denmark.
“There’s a lot of noise but internally we stick together, as H [Harry Kane] said and as Gareth said.
“We’ve been in this situation before and it’s all about just staying calm, staying positive, because we’re going to need everybody.”