Newcastle United defender Dan Burn plays 90 minutes for England but struggles in Albania
England had to be patient when breaking the deadlock against Albania on Sunday as Thomas Tuchel's side wrapped up their World Cup qualification with a 100% record.
The Three Lions topped the group with a maximum 24 points, 22 goals for and 0 against following their 2-0 win over Albania last night. It's hard not to be impressed by those stats.
It hasn't always been an exciting watch under Thomas Tuchel, as he's tinkered to find his ultimate XI, but he's getting the job done, and that's what matters.
Last night, Newcastle United's only remaining England representative, Dan Burn, played the full game, but never really got going, and the ratings in the national media reflected that.
National media say Dan Burn 'struggled' against Albania on Sunday
While there wasn't really a criticism of Burn's defending per se, there is a widespread concern over his ability on the ball, and even in ITV's highlights, there was a shocking moment from Burn where he gave the ball away, leading to a good chance for Albania.
The Standard, The Telegraph, The Express and GOAL all gave Burn a 5/10, with GOAL saying that the big man struggled.
“Struggled at times, particularly when Albania made a good start to the second half. A display which underlined why he is a squad player more than a starter.”
Dan Burn gets a weekend off this week
Burn has been a regular feature for club and country this season and is probably knackered at this point.
Thankfully for him, he gets a rest this weekend as he's suspended for Newcastle's game against Manchester City after his sending off against Brentford.
Lewis Hall is back fit and will likely start in his place and may just reclaim his spot from the 33-year-old, as we have been screaming out for pace down the left flank to support Anthony Gordon.
