England's struggles continue with home draw against Italy in Nations League

England remain winless in the UEFA Nations League following a 0-0 draw with Group A3 rivals Italy at Molineux. Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate made several changes to his line-up as he continues to experiment with his squad ahead of November’s World Cup in Qatar, but the hosts once again struggled to find the killer blow against a young Azzurri outfit. Ad/> Exactly 11 months on from the Euro 2020 final where the Italians prevailed on penalties, two much-changed sides locked horns in front of a crowd of just 3000 spectators under the age of 14 as England were punished with a two-match ban (one suspended) for the trouble that marred the Wembley showpiece last July.

UEFA Nations League'I won't outstay my welcome' — Southgate defends England's style of football12 HOURS AGO The hosts went close early on when Mason Mount crashed a shot against the crossbar, while Aaron Ramsdale produced a brilliant save to deny Sandro Tonali. The visitors also saw efforts from Ginaluca Scamacca and Davide Fratessi flash off target as a lively first period somehow ended goalless. England posed the greater threat after the interval but Raheem Sterling, who was named captain with Harry Kane starting on the bench, somehow failed to turn home a gilt-edged opportunity on 53 minutes.

The home side almost snatched victory through substitute Kane late on, but Italy held out for a deserved share of the spoils. The result means Roberto Mancini’s men remain top of the group on five points with Hungary second on four. Germany are third on three while England stay bottom with two points from three games played.