So does De Bruyne, so did Pirlo. That's what risky passers do but he's also created numerous chances. We aren't scoring without that kind of player in a game like this.
It's where they give it away that matters. You don't mind it in the attacking third, but the second half against Ireland he was giving it away from deep. He's been better today though, and there was one superb through ball for Saka earlier.
In a way, Gomes reminds me a fair bit of Harry Winks in what he brings to the team, and I always thought we looked better when Winks played as he kept the ball moving. Gomes has more to his game, and looks like he can be a threat in the final third as well. I think he's also the player that many expected Mainoo to be for us. Easily the bright spot in a fairly dull first half.
Not really worried about England's ability to score goals, but the ease at which Finland get into good counter-attacking situations without having to do too much should be concerning.
Gomes has been fine but I don't think he's performing a very high value role here. He doesn't look like much more than a recycler. Can't really stop transitions and doesn't win many duels, and he's not shown much X-factor in an attacking sense. I feel like we'd get more from Mainoo in this role tbh, at least in this game specifically. Rico Lewis is also too conservative a passer imo. It's not surprising because it's a product of the team and the environment he's developing in at club level but we need more from him on the ball.
Mainoo vs. Ireland was several levels above what Gomes is showing here imo. I can only remember one and it was to either Gordon or Grealish in a sea of space. I think he's been fine, but I'm sceptical of how he could affect the game against a better side.
Think we have played well on the whole. Finaland last ditch defending only thing stopping us scoring. Trent has played well offensively. Gordon is now being doubled up on. Maybe a bit underwhelmed by Lewis. Agree with Jenks we are very open on the counter. Feels like there aren't enough players in the rest defence.
I agree with everything but I think Lewis has looked OK. He's always available for a pass and looks complete in possession
Slightly different roles though. Gomes is generally playing a bit deeper, moves the ball quicker, and is a much better outlet. Mainoo is better moving with the ball, and I think has a better grasp in the attacking third. I would be interested to see how they play together - I think they've got games that could mesh well.
Ireland played more open and defended a lot less well than Finland have so i'm not sure it makes for easy comparison between the two