John Stones hails England Euro 2024 draw with Slovenia a 'step in the right direction' as Man City defender addresses fans' frustration

England have come under fire for their underwhelming displays throughout the Euro 2024 group stage despite qualifying for the knockout rounds as group winners. Fans and pundits alike have slammed Gareth Southgate's tactics and a section of the supporters reacted in a hostile manner towards the manager on Tuesday after the team's drab stalemate against Slovenia.

Manchester City and Three Lions defender John Stones, however, was satisfied with the team's performance and he insisted that the side have already achieved one key goal: Winning the group.

Speaking to reporters after the Slovenia clash, the English defender said, "The objective was to top the group and we have done that - it is not always going to be an easy road. It is not going to be easy when we have a target on our back to beat us.

"I thought there was a lot of improvement from the other two games, we found people in the pockets and created more chances - another step in the right direction. "I can get the fans frustration not taking chances, but that is football - it is never an easy game."

Southgate's side could face Ronald Koeman's Netherlands - after they finished third in their group - in the round of 16 stage of Euro 2024 on Sunday at Gelsenkirchen.