England Under-21’s beat Slovakia 2-1 on Monday evening.
Bristol City’s Tammy Abraham takes on the Birmingham defence
Pundit Alan Smith has told Sky Sports that he felt Tammy Abraham turned in a 9/10 display for England Under-21’s against Slovakia on Monday.
The Three Lions went into the game knowing that they had to win having drawn 0-0 with Sweden in their opening game of the Under-21 European Championships, but fell behind to Slovakia when Martin Chrien converted Albert Rusnak’s corner.
Bristol City’s Tammy Abraham looks dejected
England hit back after the break though, with Swansea City defender Alfie Mawson hauling Aidy Boothroyd’s side back into the game with the equaliser, before Southampton attacker Nathan Redmond completed the comeback with the winning goal.
That 2-1 win keeps England’s hopes of success in Poland alive, but Boothroyd will be looking for much more from his players after a flat first-half showing in Kielce.
England’s Tammy Abraham scores
One player who did catch the eye in spite of a widely disappointing team display was Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham, who was the spearhead of the England attack.
The 19-year-old was praised by pundit Alan Smith after the final whistle, as he told Sky Sports that he rated Abraham’s display as a nine out of ten, praising him for his ability to lead the line and cause problems for the Slovakia defence.
“The way he led the line on his own at times was excellent and he was a real thorn in the side of both the Slovakia centre-backs,” said Smith. “I just want to see him get a goal now but overall it was a very good display,” he added.
Pundit Alan Smith
Smith’s comments show just why Newcastle United are hoping to take Abraham on loan this summer, after watching him smash 26 goals in 48 games for Bristol City last season.
Whilst Newcastle have a poacher in Dwight Gayle, questions remain over the futures of target men Aleksandar Mitrovic and Daryl Murphy, and 6ft 4in striker Abraham could fit the bill.
Whether played up top on his own as he was for England or paired up with the diminutive Gayle, Abraham could make a real impact for Newcastle even without scoring – but with The Mirror claiming that Swansea have beaten the Magpies in the race to take Abraham on loan, Monday’s display may merely be an example of what Newcastle have missed out on barring a late twist in the saga.
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