Gary Neville shared his thoughts on Diogo Jota’s performance at Euro 2020, as the Liverpool man endured a frustrating start to the tournament.
The ex-defender spoke on ITV Sport’s Euro 2020 coverage about Jota’s first-half display before the Liverpool man was subbed off after 81 minutes with the scores goalless.
Portugal would then go onto score three goals in next to no time, with Cristiano Ronaldo netting a brace to seal an opening three points for his country.
But Neville thinks Portugal should have been ahead well before the 84th minute, as he reacted to Jota’s numerous missed chances during the first period.
“A lot of the first half seemed to have revolved around him,” said Neville. “This one (chance after five minutes) it’s a question of whether he (Jota) should square it to Ronaldo.
“I think if you are cool and composed then you do pass it to him because he’s such a brilliant finisher.
Later on in the game: “I think this is a good chance. His touch lets him down. Ordinarily there, Jota would take that towards goal and right into the top corner.
On third chance: “With this one, he is nearest to goal. A question mark over whether Fernandes was in a better position. I have some sympathy for him because I don’t think Fernandes would have had time to react.”
It will be interesting if Jota keeps his place for Portugal’s Saturday encounter against Germany because when he, Bernando Silva and William Carvalho came off, the game turned on its head.
From the current holders heading for a goalless draw, they went on to win the game 3-0 and now face a tough encounter against the German’s.
This Portugal side is packed with Premier League talent, and after a pretty positive debut campaign in Liverpool colours, Jota will be hoping to be the star of the show alongside some stellar names this summer.
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