Gareth Southgate speaks to his England squad during their win vs Slovakia (Image: Getty)
Imagine the emotions coursing through Conor Gallagher in the dressing room at half-time in Cologne last Thursday.
Yanked off after just one half during England's lacklustre stalemate with Slovenia, the youngster found himself in a challenging spot ahead of the final group game and the knockouts.
In the wake of the match, sombre snapshots showing Gallagher being consoled by his partner, Aine May Kennedy, hinted at his dejection.
Trending
With Kobbie Mainoo impressing and starting the last-16 clash against Slovakia, it was easy to suspect Gallagher's Euro 2024 campaign might have concluded prematurely. Yet, the Chelsea midfielder went on to deliver the most crucial 15 minutes of his England tenure so far.
He may not have seen much of the ball during his stint on the pitch in Gelsenkirchen when he came on for Harry Kane in the second portion of extra time, but for 15 minutes, Gallagher relentlessly pursued the Slovakian side, an effort that certainly didn't escape the attention of his team-mates.
And Kieran Trippier was keen to speak not only of Jude Bellingham's show-stealing goql or Kane's winner, but also to praise Gallagher and England's crucial 'finishers'.
Trippier acknowledged: "You see Conor doing 'doggies' at the end ... I don't think people understand how important that is."
Trippier praised Conor's determination, saying: "He came off at half-time in Cologne. But it showed his mentality to come on and run for the team, do the ugly stuff that people don't really see.
"I thought the substitutes made a huge difference. That's why we always emphasise the importance of being ready when called upon in our team. It just demonstrates the hard work put in by those who aren't playing regularly.
"The players we have on the bench can come on and make a significant impact, so a big shout out to lads like Ivan Toney."
Indeed, Brentford striker Toney, despite his initial frustration at being brought on in the 94th minute, made a big impact, as did Ezri Konsa, who was substituted at the same time as Gallagher.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Eberechi Eze was introduced 16 minutes before the end of regular time and ended up playing as a left wing-back, helping England keep the Slovakians at bay.
Eze praised the substitutes' contributions, stating: "The people that came on did their job. Having that type of energy, that type of spirit, and showing that type of belief to put in a performance like that ... it shows what we are capable of."
Of the five substitutes used by Southgate against Slovakia, only Cole Palmer - a 66th minute replacement for Trippier - and Konsa, due to Marc Guehi's suspension, have a realistic chance of starting against Switzerland on Saturday.
However, Southgate can rest assured knowing that if he calls upon his troops, Gallagher and the rest will not disappoint.