Tony Bellew says Gareth Southgate has made a big error with two Everton players after England’s draw against Denmark

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England produced another hapless performance on Thursday evening as the Three Lions drew 1-1 with Denmark in Frankfurt.

It was more of the same from Gareth Southgate’s men after their narrow win over Serbia, and it’s safe to say the nation is less than impressed.

For the first time, the likes of Gary Lineker, Micah Richards and Rio Ferdinand were visibly questioning Southgate’s tactics.

With no identifiable style of play and Harry Kane constantly dropping deep, changes are desperately required heading into the final group game against Slovenia.

Bellew, however, thinks the England boss has already made a grave error involving two Everton stars.

Tony Bellew slams Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski’s absence from the England squad

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Taking to X on Friday morning, Bellew suggested that if Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski had been selected, Stones would’ve been able to move into the central midfield role, where he has excelled for Manchester City.

Bellew wrote: “Seen the cry out for Kalvin Phillips! Brilliant player, but you’ve known about this for how long, so it’s poor planning!

“You’ve left the 2 defenders with the most clean sheets in the PL here in Tarkowski and Branthwaite, and you’ve seen Stonesy play defensive midfield; you won’t get a better defensive baller than Stones! Plan accordingly!”

He added: “Gareth, you have an amazing group of players, and we need to win something! Come on England!”

Something big needs to change for England, and quick

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The draw to Denmark was yet another demonstration of Southgate’s complete lack of tactical nous. The Danes were far better in and out of possession and were unfortunate not to pick up all three points.

For England, there’s a lot to sort out.

Decisions need to be made over who is going to play midfield because Trent Alexander-Arnold clearly isn’t the answer. Perhaps pushing Jude Bellingham back and Phil Foden inside is the way to go.

And as Bellew has mentioned, the decision not to bring Branthwaite is looking more and more perplexing by the day.

Marc Guehi has been superb, but beyond the Crystal Palace man and Stones, balanced defensive options are few and far between.

Branthwaite will no doubt play a pivotal role for England in the coming years, but there’s a solid argument to suggest he should have been present at this major tournament.