Sir Geoff Hurst snaps back at Gary Lineker's 'sh*t' England criticisms & suggests ex-Three Lions stars should keep their mouths shut

Hurst, who won the 1966 World Cup with England, has voiced his disapproval of recent events after seeing former Three Lions striker and television host Gary Lineker thrust into the spotlight after branding Gareth Southgate's side as "sh*t" at Euro 2024. Captain Harry Kane has subsequently been quizzed on Lineker's comments as has Southgate himself ahead of the team's final group game against Slovenia.

England have already qualified for the knockout stages but fans have been left underwhelmed by their performances so far. A narrow 1-0 win over Serbia was followed by a 1-1 draw against Denmark, with Southgate coming in for criticism for his use of Alexander-Arnold in midfield and fans also left disappointed by Foden's lack of form for the national team.

Hurst has told Sky Sports: "One thing I don't get along with is that criticism but also what I don't think is good is the fact that Harry [Kane] has to go to a press conference and defend himself. I am totally against any player getting criticism and going on the box and being interviewed, trying to defend his position I don't think he should be pushed into that. I don't agree with that at all.

"Certainly in this particular time, I am absolutely against being critical of the team and individuals. I'm just not getting involved in it. I don't think it's necessary. I don't think it's necessary that the players themselves should have to defend themselves. It's maybe the manager's job to defend them but I don't think it's necessary to do so."

Hurst did concede we would like to make a change to the England team, adding: "One thing I would probably change is I'd play Anthony Gordon out wide on the left and I'd put Foden more in the middle of the park where Trent Alexander-Arnold is starting. I think his record at Manchester City in terms of scoring and creating goals is fantastic and wide on the left is not his best position and you have to put players in their best position. I think Foden is a fantastic player who should be more central and I think Gordon on the left gives Kieran Trippier, who is predominantly right-footed, more opportunities to play balls out wide on the left. They are the only changes I would make."

England's final group game is on Tuesday against Slovenia and fans will be hoping for an improved showing from the Three Lions. A victory for Southgate's side will ensure they top Group C and set up a last-16 tie against one of thefour best third-placed teams in the last-16.