England’s Golden Generations: 2023 vs. 2004 Squad Comparison

England’s national football team has frequently carried the weight of high expectations, and the moniker of “The Golden Generation” was particularly associated with the team following their recent victory in Scotland. These words, attributed to former Liverpool captain and manager Graeme Souness, evoke memories of previous England teams that promised much but often failed to deliver. Notably, this tag was prominently attached to the squad led by Sven-Goran Eriksson, which reached the semi-finals of Euro 2004 in Portugal and the World Cup in Germany two years later but couldn’t claim the ultimate prize.

The missed opportunity at Euro 2004, where underdogs Greece clinched a stunning victory, still stings for England fans. It’s a feeling akin to the 2018 World Cup semi-final loss to Croatia and the Euro 2020 final defeat by Italy on penalties at Wembley. The 2004 England squad boasted world-class talent across all positions except for goalkeeper, yet they were eliminated on penalties in the quarter-finals by Portugal, a fate they repeated in 2006 in Germany.

The question now arises: Is the current England squad in 2023 the new “Golden Generation”? Can they measure up to the class of 2004, given the different strengths and weaknesses of each era? Let’s delve into a comparison to find out.

**Goalkeepers:**
England’s goalkeeper at Euro 2004 was David James, a respected figure with a long international career. In contrast, Jordan Pickford, the current goalkeeper, has made a World Cup semi-final appearance and an Euros final. Pickford’s consistency and outstanding performances would likely earn him a place over James in the 2004 squad.

**Defense:**
While the 2004 England squad boasted a strong defensive lineup with players like Gary Neville, John Terry, Sol Campbell, and Ashley Cole, the current England team faces defensive challenges. It’s difficult to argue that any member of the current squad could displace those defenders from the 2004 team, despite some promising talents.

**Midfield:**
The 2004 midfield featured star players like David Beckham, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, and Paul Scholes. However, the balance of that midfield was questioned, and the partnership between Lampard and Gerrard often fell short of expectations. The 2023 squad can make a strong case for inclusion with players like Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, who offer a more balanced and versatile approach to the midfield.

**Attack:**
In 2004, England witnessed the emergence of Wayne Rooney, who made a significant impact. The current squad, led by Harry Kane, offers more options and versatility in attack. With players like Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, and Marcus Rashford, the 2023 squad provides a wider and more varied choice compared to the 2004 team.

While Eriksson’s England had a record of reaching quarter-finals, Southgate’s current squad has an opportunity to achieve more, particularly considering their World Cup semi-final, Euros final, and another World Cup quarter-final. Southgate may have his critics, but his track record in major tournaments suggests that this “Golden Generation” might have a chance to rewrite history in Germany.