Gareth Southgate lauded Rico Lewis for his performance on his England debut while criticizing VAR for a ‘harsh’ penalty decision.

England manager Gareth Southgate praised Manchester City youngster Lewis for a good start against North Macedonia on Monday.

Southgate was impressed with the 19-year-old’s poise throughout the game, despite handing the opponents a penalty in the first half, which he felt was a harsh decision.

Lewis was deemed guilty by VAR of striking opponent striker Bojan Miovski in the face inside the England penalty box, resulting in a spot-kick for the North Macedonians, from which Enis Bardhi broke the deadlock in the 41st minute. An own goal by Jani Atanasov in the second half allowed the European heavyweights to escape with a point.

While attempting to shield the striker, the young defender jumped in the air to clear the ball with his head. He accidentally smacked Miovski with his hand as he came down.

The Three Lions manager told reporters after the game, “He was excellent, his composure with the ball, the fact that he did respond to that set-back [the penalty], which was really, really harsh.” He’s a fantastic footballer; he was outstanding, in my opinion, and we’re really pleased with him.”

Pep Guardiola is set to choose the full-back in the Cityzens’ matchday squad on Saturday, when the reigning champions face old rivals Liverpool in a critical Premier League battle.