England remains under scrutiny for their performance in UEFA Euro 2024. The Three Lions have kept a weak foot in the opening two matches as they garner criticism from the soccer fraternity. While it has mostly been Gareth Southgate taking the heat, the English boss was quick enough to give a boot to backlash. Yet, Paul Scholes becomes the latest to add his voice to the choir of dissent as he questions Southgate’s fixation with ‘energy‘ instead of ‘brains.’

The Manchester United icon recently took to Instagram and shared a picture of himself in Salford City gear, during his time as the League Two side’s boss. Additionally, he gave a caption to it saying, “Why are we so obsessed with energy when we should be obsessed with brains?” Scholes is apparently taking a dig at Southgate over his team selection of England in the Euros, so far.

In an earlier interview with TNT Sports, the former Red Devils midfielder questioned Gareth’s snub for United youngster Kobbie Mainoo. “If Kobbie Mainoo came in, all of a sudden you have control, you have a player who makes your team play football,” said Scholes, insisting how the presence of the 18-year-old in the team frees up players like Jude Bellingham. Yet, Southgate continues to face criticism over his starting XI.

Aside from deploying Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield, the 53-year-old has also been slammed for not bringing the best out of Phil Foden and has been urged to bench the Manchester City star. Now, the latest claim makes it difficult for the England boss to choose a squad for the final group-stage match against Slovenia. However, Southgate doesn’t seem to be affected by those criticisms!

Critique ‘not important’ to Gareth Southgate ahead of Slovenia showdown

Notably, Gareth Southgate isn’t letting the negative air take over him. Ahead of the pre-match presser for the final Group C match, he acknowledged how he has become used to the critique; something, which would have saddened him years ago. “Now I’m oblivious to it. It’s not important to me. What’s important to me is guiding this group of players through the tournament,” he said, as compiled by Sky Sports.

“I don’t need to engage in the external, I’m my own biggest critic. The players are the same,” added Gareth. The Three Lions boss further asserted that everyone on the roster, including himself, remains aware of their drawbacks and is ready to give their all to improve. Notably, England is at the top of Group C with four points. Whether they win or not against Slovenia, they are likely to progress to the round of 16.

Perhaps, a solid win in tonight’s game may offer Gareth Southgate some respite from the criticism.