England's performance in the Euro 2024 group stage has been a mixed bag, to put it lightly. Despite topping Group C, the Three Lions have faced criticism for their uninspiring displays.
Gareth Southgate's side has been accused of playing a defensive and tedious style of football, failing to excite fans despite the talent in the squad. However, amidst the criticisms, a few players have managed to stand out with their performances.
Top Performer: Marc Guehi
Marc Guehi has been a revelation for England in the group stage, at least for those that didn't already know how great he is.
The Crystal Palace defender stepped up impressively, especially given the absence of regular starter Harry Maguire due to injury.
Guehi has been pivotal in England’s defence, showing exceptional composure, tackling, and aerial prowess. His ability to keep strikers like Dusan Vlahovic and Aleksandar Mitrovic at bay was crucial in securing victories and maintaining clean sheets.
Guehi's performances against Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia were standout displays, earning him the top spot as England's best player of the group stage.
Key Stats of Marc Guehi During Euro 2024 Group Stage
Matches and Playing Time
Matches Played: 3
Minutes Played: 270 (90 minutes per match)
Defensive Contributions
Tackles: 5 (1.67 per match)
Balls Recovered: 26 (8.67 per match)
Clearances Completed: 4 out of 5
Blocks: 3
Yellow Cards: 1
Fouls Committed: 1 (all in the defensive third)
Distribution
Passing Accuracy: 93%
Passes Completed: 197 out of 210
Short Passes: 34 out of 39
Medium Passes: 153 out of 158
Long Passes: 10 out of 13
Backward Passes Completed: 15 out of 15
Passes to Left: 38 out of 40
Passes to Right: 84 out of 86
Passes into Attacking Third: 12
Passes into Key Play Area: 6
Physical Performance
Top Speed: 32.8 km/h
Distance Covered: 29.15 km (9.34 km per match)
Attacking and Possession
Times in Possession: 235
Dribbles: 1
Runs into Attacking Third: 1
Runs into Key Play Area: 1
Disciplinary Record
Yellow Cards: 1
Fouls Committed: 1
Fouls Suffered: 3
FAQ
Who is Marc Guehi? Marc Guehi is a professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Crystal Palace in the Premier League and the England national team. Born on July 13, 2000, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Guehi moved to England at a young age and developed his football career there.
What position does Marc Guehi play? Marc Guehi plays as a central defender. His defensive capabilities, including tackling, aerial duels, and composure on the ball, make him a key player in the heart of the defence for both England and Palace.
Which clubs has Marc Guehi played for? Marc Guehi began his professional career at Chelsea FC, where he progressed through the youth academy. He spent two seasons on loan at Swansea City in the Championship before joining Crystal Palace in the Premier League in 2021.
How has Marc Guehi performed for Crystal Palace? Since joining Crystal Palace, Marc Guehi has established himself as a mainstay in the defence. His performances have been praised for their consistency, leadership, and defensive solidity. Guehi's ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has made him a fan favourite at Selhurst Park.
What are Marc Guehi's international achievements? Marc Guehi has represented England at various youth levels, including the U17, U19, and U21 teams. He made his senior debut for the England national team in 2022. Guehi played a significant role in England's successful group stage campaign at Euro 2024, where his defensive prowess earned him recognition as the team's best player.
What are Marc Guehi's strengths as a defender? Marc Guehi's key strengths include his excellent tackling ability, strong aerial presence, and composure under pressure. He is known for his precise positioning, ability to read the game, and effectiveness in one-on-one situations. Additionally, his ball-playing skills enable him to contribute to the team's build-up play from the back.
What is Marc Guehi's background and early career? Marc Guehi was born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, and moved to England at a young age. He joined Chelsea's youth academy, where he developed his football skills. Guehi captained Chelsea's youth teams and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Youth League. His successful loan spell at Swansea City further honed his abilities, leading to his transfer to Crystal Palace.