STEPH HOUGHTON: England were perfect in the hammering of Ukraine… but they MUST be wary of Denmark who have the quality and momentum to hurt Gareth Southgate’s side in the semi-final at Wembley
That was a really professional performance against Ukraine when the pressure was on.
England were favourites and justified that. There were so many positives. The early goal from Harry Kane, who has hit form when everyone was doubting him, changed the game immediately.
Raheem Sterling provided an unbelievable assist and in the pressure moments when Ukraine started to create chances, Jordan Pickford again stood up.
England put in a perfect performance to see off Ukraine 4-0 at the European Championship
As they have been in each game, John Stones and Harry Maguire were excellent. To keep another clean sheet, to score four goals, to rest players and give others minutes, to avoid suspensions for the likes of Kalvin Phillips and Declan Rice, it was the perfect night.
I am sure every single England fan is getting excited for the semi-final.
We are seeing a team growing in confidence and I can’t wait for the game.
But Denmark are going to be tough. We know that they have used what happened to Christian Eriksen — with the whole community and football world getting behind them — as a positive. But they are about much more than motivation.
A strong centre back partnership has been key between Harry Maguire (left) and John Stones
Denmark have earned their semi-final spot and will be really tough opponents for England
These are opponents with quality in their squad. The likes of Kasper Schmeichel and Andreas Christensen provide good experience for a team who are not only tough to beat but scoring goals.
It is going to be difficult. When it gets to the semi-final of any competition it is all about who can cope with the pressure and produce on the day.
England have shown they can do that against Germany and Ukraine, but Denmark will be difficult to break down and have players who can finish, so we can’t write them off. Like England, they have quality and momentum.