Defender Reflects on Long-Awaited Goal After Equaliser Secures Point in Euro 2024 Qualifier

Kyle Walker expressed relief after netting his first international goal for England, ending a long wait in his 77th appearance for his country. The 33-year-old defender equalised against Ukraine in a 1-1 draw, finding the back of the net from a brilliant Harry Kane assist in the first half of their Euro 2024 qualifier in Wroclaw, Poland.

Walker had long carried the weight of not having scored for England since his senior debut in 2011. Following the match, he told Channel 4: “It’s a relief. Representing your country is an honour, and I’ve had a lot of opportunities, so it was always on my mind. Finally, I’ve got that goal after 77 caps.”

The goal came as England struggled for much of the match, with possession dominance failing to produce a decisive lead. Walker admitted that England lacked their usual cutting edge in attack: “We know we can perform better. Ukraine are a strong side, and we respected them, but we came here looking for more.” The point leaves England unbeaten and top of Group C, but Walker believes the team can improve moving forward.