England ‘lacked a bit of quality’ in Slovenia draw says Carsley

England Under-21 head coach Lee Carsley says his side “lacked a bit of quality” after the Young Lions were held to a goalless draw against Slovenia.

After a comfortable win in their first match against Czechia of their European Championships, Carsley’s sides had chances to score through Ethan Nwaneri and Harvey Elliott, who volleyed an effort onto the post.

The Young Lions managed 20 shots to Slovenia’s seven, in what was a one-sided performance, but could not find a breakthrough. Carsley was disappointed his side could not take advantage of their superiority.

“It was frustrating,” Carsley said. “It wasn’t for the want of effort, we just lacked a bit of quality at times. We had some really good chances and if we’d taken one of them I think we’d have won the game comfortably.

“We have to give Slovenia credit as well. They made it very difficult for us, especially the way they started and the way they set up in terms of letting us have the ball.

“We didn’t start fast and we were under pressure in the first 15 minutes. It was important we didn’t concede so that was a real positive.

“The objective is to qualify for the group and we’re still on course for that. It’s really important that the players recover; I think we’ll definitely freshen the team up for the Germany game.”

Young Lions captain James McAtee was upbeat despite the disappointing performance, with a point needed against Germany needed to secure qualification to the knockout stages.

“We’re disappointed, we came here to win, but it’s a point and we’re still in charge of [qualification],” said the Manchester City midfielder.

“I don’t think we fell short in general play, it was just the chances – I missed a few, there were some great saves from the keeper. On another day we come away with three points.

“We’ll go back now and socialise, see our families for a bit, and we’ll be ready for the next game.”