England fans slam ‘disgrace of a pitch’ as injury risk in Euro 2024 game against Denmark
Several England players lost their footing in the first half against Denmark
Your support helps us to tell the story
This election is still a dead heat, according to most polls. In a fight with such wafer-thin margins, we need reporters on the ground talking to the people Trump and Harris are courting. Your support allows us to keep sending journalists to the story.
The Independent is trusted by 27 million Americans from across the entire political spectrum every month. Unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock you out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. But quality journalism must still be paid for.
Help us keep bring these critical stories to light. Your support makes all the difference.
England were frustrated by the poor condition of the pitch at the Frankfurt Arena as players repeatedly lost their footing on the surface in their Euro 2024 draw against Denmark.
The turf was clearly cutting up as England were held to a dismal 1-1 stalemate, with right-back Kyle Walker escaping an injury after slipping and almost rolling over his ankle.
The Manchester City full-back even changed his boots only minutes into the Group C fixture, but was then involved in the opening goal as he set up captain Harry Kane to fire England into the lead.
Walker took another huge divot out of the penalty area as he cut the ball back towards Kane, who slotted England in front.
The roof was closed in the first half at Frankfurt Arena due to the weather in Germany, which may have created more humid conditions at pitch level that contributed to the surface.
Jude Bellingham was another England star to lose his footing in the second half, with the Real Madrid midfielder appearing to escape injury after falling and twisting his leg awkwardly.
Former England and Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand said it looked like players “needed rollerskates”.
The pitch didn’t bother Morten Hjulmund, however, who fired a stunning equaliser from range 20 minutes after Kane’s opener - leaving goalkeeper Jordan Pickford well beaten.
On social media, England fans described the pitch as “shocking” and a “disgrace”, with several supporters highlighting that players were at risk of suffering a serious injury on the slippy surfance.
Former England striker Alan Shearer highlighted the poor condition of the pitch while commentating for the BBC and England’s passing play was less fluent due to several bobbles.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments