The match was also notable for Christian because it confirmed him, for now, as his country’s most capped player. The midfielder’s 133rd appearance takes him one clear of Simon Kjaer, who was an unused substitute. Eriksen was also named Man of the Match after another enterprising performance.
Meanwhile, further north, Kobbie Mainoo made a positive impact for England in the second half. After replacing Conor Gallagher at the interval, he linked play confidently and, late on, was involved in arguably his team’s best move of the game, when he linked seamlessly with Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane to set up a chance for Cole Palmer.
Luke Shaw was not involved in Cologne, as he continues his recovery from injury, but England fans hope that the left-back might be a contender for the first knockout game, given he is now taking part in full team training.
