Not a lot to get excited about....maybe Butland and OXc. We'll qualify Im sure but beyond that I dont see much success any time soon.
Why has Roy called up three left backs?its a complex due to not having a left back at the albion!!
You must of missed Englands win against Italy where we were fantastic,
I think Hodgson now knows that 4-5-1 is the way to go.
Why has Roy called up three left backs?
It makes sense now Cole has pulled out, Roy probably already knew he was a doubt. Bertrand is never a winger. I could understand putting him on the left wing if we were playing Spain or somebody to do a job defensively. But against Moldova?
I dont think he will play a 442. More likely he will play a 4411 with somebody like Young as a forward. In months to come we might be asking for a 5 man midfield if Wilshere can come back again next to Carrick, Cleverley and maybe an attacking midfielder but at the moment Hodgson needs to do what I thinks is right - it worked against Italy a few weeks ago.
It makes sense now Cole has pulled out, Roy probably already knew he was a doubt. Bertrand is never a winger. I could understand putting him on the left wing if we were playing Spain or somebody to do a job defensively. But against Moldova?
Sterling called up after one good game!! Adam Lallana and Jake Livermore have also been called up. I feel sorry for Nathan Dyer
Dont know it in full but Roys pulled a beauty in not selecting the very much lazy over rated Ashley Young.
Nice one Roy, keep your mits off our Dan though
England must be the most fustrating and dissapointing teams to watch ever :(Spain before 4 years ago and the Netherlands are probably more frustrating as they were really good and always have been, just never won!
they say they don't want it, then the tournament comes and takes over the world for a few weeks, the qualifiers are just a bit that is a necessary burden we have to deal with.
To me football is football, it's still fun to watch.
If they did all the qualifiers during the summer or something like that I would probably like it more but I hate it how we have to go the week without the domestic game which in my opinion is so much better and more exciting. England v San Marino for god sake? Half of their players probably couldnt get into Kiddy Harriers team.Your still going to mess up someone's season. They'd probably lose 5-6 weeks of their season with a qualifier game once a week, I know it's not fun to lose a week of the league but it's better than some other league losing a large chunk of their because your too impatient to wait.
Who actually wants International football, I dont think anyone misses it when its not on but a lot of people get annoyed by it as it means a weekend without the domestic football.
Count me amongst those who would do away with international football. It's an inferior product and a marketing windfall for all the nasty, corrupt governing bodies around the world.
might see a few goals against San Marino
England loosing its appeal apparently. Most people will be watching Wales v Scotland.Will you?
England loosing its appeal apparently. Most people will be watching Wales v Scotland.Will you?
pitch is looking terrible might be called off :(No groundstaff? No they are over here picking fruit.
The Doris from Poland said they have heating systems, when the roof closes it will get rid of the water in 30 minutes, but they can't close the roof, so how the bloody hell will they fix it .
For me Serbia and Poland should be banned for a long time for these farces tonight!
As I've seen re-tweeted. What will happen with Emmerdale's live episode tomorrow?!
i start work at 5 godammit!
what happened with Serbia zippy?Sorry to reply late.
Sorry to reply late.
The under 21's had to put up with racist chants, being spat at, Serb fans on pitch , fighting, you know the usual we expect and we wait to see what uefa do?.
We've beat San Marino and Moldova who can barely be called football teams, and we struggle against average (at best) teams like Poland and Ukraine. What does that make us?a team in transition? have we had a near fixed squad under any of the last three managers?? I don't think we have.
I'm happy with a point in Poland.
Why though do pretty much every team we play keep the ball, have far better touch and technical ability that these England players who are on an average of 100k a week?
Something has gone horribly wrong with English football and until that is sorted we'll not win a thing at International level.
Why though do pretty much every team we play keep the ball, have far better touch and technical ability that these England players who are on an average of 100k a week?
Something has gone horribly wrong with English football and until that is sorted we'll not win a thing at International level.
Dont know it in full but Roys pulled a beauty in not selecting the very much lazy over rated Ashley Young.
Nice one Roy, keep your mits off our Dan though
Nope...not me.
Can anybody really get excited about tonight's game? i cant believe i have lost interest since the world cup in South Africa.Those days i would always put England before the Albion but not anymore
Nope...not me.
Didn't see all of the game, pleased that we won, Lampards goal was really good. Brazil weren't at there best tonight.Thank God for that! Wouldn´t want them spoiling the F.A.´s party...would we? ;)
I wasnt aware Brazil were 18th in the world rankings :o
I didnt know they were that low down either.
We have an England Player in our ranks.Well done Ben Foster for your call up.When was the last time we had a player called up for England duties?
Sounds like a big two fingers up back at Hodgson for picking Terry over Ferdinand last year.
Who cares? Ferdinand is average and always has been.
Can't agree with that Ferdinand is a Rolls Royce of a defender.
What annoys me is the press portraying it as a blow to Hodgson, and an embarrassment for him. Ferdinand wasn't picked because hes old and past it, and now that we've been left with few other options, Roy only picked him because he was backed into a corner. Now Rio's gone and chucked his toys out the pram, and I'll bet he doesn't get half as much stick for doing that as Ben Foster does for coming back.I don't think it's fair to lay the blame at Rio's feet. Imagine having to work for SAF? SAF is the puppetmaster here. I also read plenty of United fans' on Twitter who basically cheered him on, going on and on about how United is bigger than England. That pisses me off, personally.
The media basically feel slighted because it wasn't their mate the tax-dodger given the job, and want to get back at Roy and the FA. And loads of suckers will buy it hook, line and sinker.
Oh dear Gary Cahill pulled out now. SOS for John Terry?Why him, theres a perfectly good central defender at Bolton at the moment who knows the England set up, can defend and score goals. Dawson any body ??...............I mean, we're only playing San Marino FFS !! i COULD PLAY FOR ALL THE DEFENDING THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED !!!
Why him, theres a perfectly good central defender at Bolton at the moment who knows the England set up, can defend and score goals. Dawson any body ??...............I mean, we're only playing San Marino FFS !! i COULD PLAY FOR ALL THE DEFENDING THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED !!!The one who's already entered in the under 21 squad where he's destined to start and get good game time rather than sat on the bench twidling his thumbs? The one where it's better for both him and us if he stays where he is?
The one who's already entered in the under 21 squad where he's destined to start and get good game time rather than sat on the bench twidling his thumbs? The one where it's better for both him and us if he stays where he is?I think that´s the one he means.
That one?
Cricket score tonight against the equal lowest ranked team in the world
Will Rio play for England ever again?
By the way where is San Marino?
Hope not.
And its in Italy
What a country in a country, whats all that about :D
Bit like England and Wales really. I thought San Marino was an island until recently
Have been doing a bit of research.San marino is surounded by Italy, dropped in the middle.strange really so not really like wales
Dang, I wonder where it was meant to go (and who dropped it)? :o
Have been doing a bit of research.San marino is surounded by Italy, dropped in the middle.strange really so not really like wales
Vatican City, Andora and Monaco are other examples of principalities.
Vatican City, Andora and Monaco are other examples of principalities.
The one who's already entered in the under 21 squad where he's destined to start and get good game time rather than sat on the bench twidling his thumbs? The one where it's better for both him and us if he stays where he is?Pardon me for voicing an opinion,you are obviously all knowing and how dare my opinion not be the same as yours !
That one?
Pardon me for voicing an opinion,you are obviously all knowing and how dare my opinion not be the same as yours !I could say the same to you taking offense to me voicing mine, never said your's was wrong, only that it was logical for both if he pulled a Butland and stayed at the level below.
I didnt know he had already been picked for the under 21's and as for him sat on the bench, the thread was about who would replace missing centre halves for England and against the likes of San Marino, Dawson could do a job at short notice.
Will Rio play for England ever again?He showed poor judgment to stay on as an Al Jazeera commentator for his own country's match. On the other hand, the man's entitled to look out for himself and develop his media profile. I don't really have a problem with the commentating per se, but in the context of missing a chance to play for his country, it leaves a bad taste.
He showed poor judgment to stay on as an Al Jazeera commentator for his own country's match. On the other hand, the man's entitled to look out for himself and develop his media profile. I don't really have a problem with the commentating per se, but in the context of missing a chance to play for his country, it leaves a bad taste.
I could say the same to you taking offense to me voicing mine, never said your's was wrong, only that it was logical for both if he pulled a Butland and stayed at the level below.At least I came up with an option about Dawson ( also see the thread about him on the main board ), all you did was have a pop at what I had posted. I can recognise sarchasm when I read it. You offered nothing other than an attempt to belittle what I had posted.
Dawson is eligable and a part of the under 21's till after the next tournament and would have to have spectacularly bad form to be dropped after his perfomances for them, he's a near constant and he's probably the best the u-21's have but at the same time there are fully fledged defenders that play for their teams who can play for England. Losing one defender is not enough to pull a defender from the youth team when there are plenty of defenders with previous caps. Too much of a risk unless he's really good and heading his place in a top team (which is exactly why players from top teams get picked)
England under some pressure to beat both San Marino and Montenegro.Its possible we might not even make the PlayoffsThey didnt look to be under pressure to me mate, I expected a cricket score and it almost turned out that way ha ha ha
Montenegro might pose a little more of a threat.....but I would expect us to beat them as well.It's amazing how Montenegro even causes a stir, considering they've considerably less population than the city of Birmingham. Must be lots of good footballers there!
It's amazing how Montenegro even causes a stir, considering they've considerably less population than the city of Birmingham. Must be lots of good footballers there!Have I missed something here ??
Have I missed something here ??
My post was a response to a post about about San Marino.......and compared to them, Montenegro may as well be Brazil FFS !!
Not saying Montenegro are anything, just better than San Marino.....which isnt saying a lot I grant you.
Like Steve Clarke Roy will pick a team not to looseThat doesn't make sense, how many times have we drawn under clarke? how many times does he put on attacking players as the game closes? Clarke doesn't play for the draw bar two games, West Ham at home and Stoke away. One to end a poor run of form and the other to retain points from a team we normally lose to.
Like Steve Clarke Roy will pick a team not to loose
Bit harsh on Clarke there.
Hodgson may well do that though. Since when has any half decent international team had to fear Montenegro? England should show them some respect but nowhere near as much as it seems they are going to.
Hodgson will always choose caution especially away.At times, last year, this translated into a very defensive, status-quo mentality, as I saw it. Not saying it was a bad thing, but I feel SC has brought a more experimental tone to coaching, and sometimes (not always) the results have been exciting.
Hodgson needs to start being more positive ... and it's hard to see where a win will come from against Poland and Montenegro given our tactics seem to amount to sit back and wait for them to score.You say this style of play has long characterised England?
all i can say is good luck to the people who will waste their money following England in Brazil.
How Glen Johnson plays ahead of Baines is beyod me. Lescott is also very average as well. If Mcauley or Olsson was English I would say they may be head of the likes of Lescott.
Davis Beckham retires from professional football at the end of the season. Marmite for most.
The best footballing role model ever
Davis Beckham retires from professional football at the end of the season. Marmite for most.
The best footballing role model ever
On the Beckham topic i got no issues with him being knighted.Fully deserves it for meHe won't get a proper knighthood yet (like Seb Coe or Judy Dench is a Dame) but will get an honorary one at New year's at some point. still means the same to Joe Public and even if he doesn't, he's still an OBE. Maybe he could be eligible for Companionship or an Order of Merit in Culture?
Jack Rodwell in the squad now.................................. Deary me.
Cant say I'm impressed with the new kit.
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/new-england-kit-outrage-over-1900476 (http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/new-england-kit-outrage-over-1900476)
Why on earth isn't the trim around the neck red, or the Nike tick red?'Cause it doesn't have to be? we've worn blue and black plenty of times instead of red.
Jack Rodwell in the squad now.................................. Deary me.
Why? He's not a bad player.
He's not a good one either not in world class terms.
Name me one England player who is?
We have a good squad of players that's all know. Rooney isn't a world class player until he performs in a world cup.
Would you say the same about Messi? Would you have said that of George Best? International football isn't as strong as Champions League football.
You could add Gareth Bale to that list plus other Welsh players who have never or may never play in a World Cup.
Would you say the same about Messi? Would you have said that of George Best? International football isn't as strong as Champions League football.
So... I've just seen the new away kit. If there is one thing I have a complaint about it's that DAMN GOLD BADGE!! Not that I actually like the kit overall, actually prefer the old fashioned "German-esque" kit.Will theese be the kits for 1 year again?
(http://www.footballkitnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Red-England-Football-Shirt-2013.jpg)
Will theese be the kits for 1 year again?Unfortunately I'm not at liberty to say.... being that I don't know! :P
Or 2 years like it should be
Does anyone from this board follow England around. I know an Albion fan down here that goes to every England game.Yes i do missed 2 aways in 12 years off to brazil tomorrow with another 9 lads ,6 Albion ,one Man City,One Forest ,One Villa ,cant wait ,dont do home games though as wembleys a nightmare getting out and home
Yes i do missed 2 aways in 12 years off to brazil tomorrow with another 9 lads ,6 Albion ,one Man City,One Forest ,One Villa ,cant wait ,dont do home games though as wembleys a nightmare getting out and home
I applaud you.Dont forget to drape something with Albion on it :)i have a white dragon (Old English Flag)with Albion on it so look out for that should stand out from the Crosses
Poor performance. Republic were by a distance the worst team in Euro 2012 and were comprehensively pulled apart by Spain (expected) Italy (embarrassingly one sided) and Croatia (easily).
Hodgson is a 4-4-2 merchant and its so old fashioned and no one plays it anymore at international level. Boring and rigid and predictable and Ireland just needed to be disciplined in order to shut us out. Our goal was due to a mistake after all.
When Hodgson got the job I didn't believe he is the right manager and still don't. I'm not convinced we'll even qualify for the tournament.
On a positive note I do like the new 'German' kit and the red one looks quality too. ;D
What is our current ranking.If we are still top 10 its a joke.
We are a million miles off being anysort of success.Some of the clubs need to start blooding the English instead of playing mercenary foreigners.Not many of our young up and comers are getting much game time and experience
Ain't it funny this tripe relpaced Britans got talent on TV
Don't get used to seeing England play in Brazil...
They wont be going back next year thats for sure
Does Glen Johnson always get a cap because there is no one else
Good performance so far.
Is that sarcastic?
I think we've been utter pooh.
How does Glen Johnson get into this team?!
I can only assume we have no one else better
England to win the World Cup, might have a bet on it.
Good result, better 2nd half performance, Hart fantastic, Johnson and Walcott appalling.
This looks like a poor Brazil side to me but no doubt come the tournament they will raise their game and we (if we get there) will go into our shell as always.
Roy will never make an England manager.He is not a cup tournament type manager.He likes his draws and draws don't get us anywhere because we cant take penalties.
Come back to us Roy and keep us mid table forevermore
While i don't think we will win anything i do think some of the moaning is over the top , this side is one or two good strikers away from being decent imo.I agree mate.....we have a decent proven striker ( when he's fit) in Jermain Defoe but for some reason he hardly gets a look in, probably due to his fitness but I'd play him above Rooney as a striker. Rooney did F/A apart from score adeflected goal. Yes I know that's what he's there for but he's not right for an out and out striker role.
Rooney can do it...but often doesn't , world class players are Consistent, which is why Cole, Lampard, Gerrard are the closest we have, Roy takes unfair abuse for 2 reasons 1) the players are just not good enough, 2) he's not Redknapp.Call it controversial, but i have a feeling they are going to turn into the old Spain. Rivalling Holland as the best team not to win. Naturally I have no evidence, but I think they'll flop at the World Cup....
The next World Cup winners will begin with B , Brazil at home always strong and Belgium, Lukaku :D, benteke, Vermalen , vertonghen, miralas, hazard, de bryune , mingolet, courtouis,kompany etc etc.
Call it controversial, but i have a feeling they are going to turn into the old Spain. Rivalling Holland as the best team not to win. Naturally I have no evidence, but I think they'll flop at the World Cup....
Do you think England will qualify for Brazil? I think we will get there via the playoffs
Do you think England will qualify for Brazil? I think we will get there via the playoffssounds about right.
Our performances so far in qualifying have left a lot to be desired. The important game will be Poland at Wembley. As it stands, I really don't see us qualifying unless we can pull something out the bag. As much as I'd like England to qualify to be at the World parties and to compete on the grandest stage of them all, we'll only be set up for disappointment when we get there so it might be a blessing in disguise if we don't qualify afterall. Jokes aside, if we don't qualify it will be an absolute embarrassment and would be typical of how England as a nation has been let down by it's players and footballing authorities over the last ten, twenty, thirty or even forty years. I don't think the national game has been considered so poorly as it now, that's partly due to a lack of success but the way the current players, and some who have previously retired have viewed it as a burden - the pulling out of squads for ridiculous injuries but managing to play for their clubs on the saturday - unless that mentality changes then the glamour of the national game will continue to decline.What does that say about the Dutch? At least we've won a major tournament (which i don't think Holland has)and arguably the Dutch national side have a consistently better team with some very big names in there.
There is always expectation following England but for a country our size to not be competing or at least winning tournaments is frankly abysmal. The wait has gone on far too long and the FA can hold themselves accountable due to the growth of English footballers being quite frankly poor - still, least the Premier League makes some money, eh?
What does that say about the Dutch? At least we've won a major tournament (which i don't think Holland has)and arguably the Dutch national side have a consistently better team with some very big names in there.
Without wishing to sound rude, Hunnington. I don't really give a rubbish about the Dutch and what they do. I'm interested to see what England do and ever since 1966, it hasn't really been good enough.It was just an example, there are plenty of teams with high stature that haven't won in many years and perhaps never won. We aren't a unique case, not by a long shot. But because of this habit to beat the current players with the team's history then it make us look much much worse (reminds me of another link with Liverpool, living off past glory)
The Dutch have failed in tournaments but have no doubt brought through some very entertaining, technically gifted footballers which we haven't been able to produce with the exception of a few.
It was just an example, there are plenty of teams with high stature that haven't won in many years and perhaps never won. We aren't a unique case, not by a long shot. But because of this habit to beat the current players with the team's history then it make us look much much worse (reminds me of another link with Liverpool, living off past glory)
the problem we have as a nation is we don't have a good enough strikeforce, was talking about this today at work and we couldn't name 5 strikers we would take.
I wouldn't stop just there mate.
I guess you could include midfielders and defenders in that list of not being good enough.
I do agree you with you though that our striking department is looking incredibly bare. It's made even worse when injuries occur.
Watching the under 21s last night was as painful as watching the seniors. Players who cannot pass a ball or control it.
Mind you how are we supposed to move forward to try and catch up with the Germans and the Spanish when we have Hodgson and Pearce coaching. Awful appointments by the FA.
Very good article here from Henry Winter. Hard to disagree with what Stuart Pearce says to be honest.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/england/10104854/England-Under-21-coach-Stuart-Pearce-leads-calls-for-mandatory-selection-after-Euro-2013-defeat-by-Italy.html
The worrying line for me: “There are one or two players who do not want to give their summers up, whichever way you look at it, to go and represent their country,” - Quite frankly a disgusting attitude and one which sums up the culture of the English game and the lack of contempt they share for their national side.
Under 21's were awful. Pearce OUT Southgate IN
Germany U21: Neuer, Beck, Howedes, Boateng, Boenisch, Hummels (Aogo 83), Johnson (Schwaab 68), Castro, Khedira, Ozil (Schmelzer 89), Wagner.
England U21: Loach, Cranie (Gardner 80), Richards, Onuoha (Mancienne 46), Gibbs, Cattermole, Muamba (Rodwell 77), Noble, Milner, Walcott, Johnson.
A lot of talk on Twitter suggesting that Michael Appleton could be named the England U21's coach.
It would make perfect sense considering both Ashworth and Hodgson are a part of the FA set up.
Although he's not the person I'd want in charge of the U21s.
Haha it would seem more like West Brom than England if Appleton does go there!!You didn't see the Brazil game, did you? Japan always do this, they are either very very good or very very bad. That is why they never get out of the group stages at major tournaments. While England are "usually" quite consistent, not earth shattering but usually get to the last 16. Add the importance of playing in Brazil is to the Japanese and you can see why they were desperate to stay.
On another note, watched the Italy Japan game last night and Japan impressed me so much, judging on that performance they are way ahead of us! Not good times for English football at the moment. The bottom line is basically we need more English players playing in the Premier League as the current figure 31% is shockingly poor.
I see that the England U20's got knocked out of the World Cup having failed to get out of their group of Chile (1-1) Iraq (2-2) and Egypt (0-2).
This after the U21's failed miserably at the Euro's and the seniors struggling to qualify for next summers World Cup.
Worry times for English Football. The International Premier League, and that's what it has become, is ruining English football and the English FA is powerless to stop it.
I see that the England U20's got knocked out of the World Cup having failed to get out of their group of Chile (1-1) Iraq (2-2) and Egypt (0-2).
This after the U21's failed miserably at the Euro's and the seniors struggling to qualify for next summers World Cup.
Worry times for English Football. The International Premier League, and that's what it has become, is ruining English football and the English FA is powerless to stop it.
As for U21's next manager the footballing media need to get their heads out of their backsides if Appleton is appointed.
Could someone tell me what Peter Taylor's record was when he was appointed in 1996 and nutured some very good players.
He had a 10 year career where he managed Dartford, Dover and Southend.
Peter Taylor is now the England u20 boss which I think is a good appointment.
Based on what? He is the typical FA 'tick all the boxes' man - just like Stuart Pearce.
Saido Berahino has been called up to the Under-21's who will also be managed by Roy Hodgson.
Also in the stands was Michael Appleton - potentially the next under 21s coach.
Just gave my missus ( who is Scottish ) the good news, she flicked me the bird and pi**ed off into the kitchen, ;D :D
Way ahead of you there mate. 2 FLAGS out the upstairs window, One St George, one Union Jack............old school !!
Got yeah flag draping out the window up there i hope ;)
'Its who you know, not what you know'. No doubt in my mind he's only linked with the job by having previously worked with Ashworth and Hodgson.
What has Appleton done to deserve being responsible for the next generation of English footballers? This is even a step back from Stuart Pearce IMO.
I tend to agree. I've been quite critical in the past of the FA appointing their yes men and Appleton just seems like another in the long list of those appointed because they 'tick the boxes' despite having achieved very little in their managerial careers. Michael Appleton has a very disjointed and poor CV in terms of managerial achievements, for him to be given the under 21s job would be silly in my opinion when we've allowed quality coaches like Rene Meulensteen get away without an interest - who despite having a lack of managerial chances is a very highly regarded coach in bringing out players technical ability - he was apparently very important behind the developments of Tom Cleverley and Danny Welbeck, emphasising the importance of being good on the ball whilst he was working at United as their skills development coach. No doubt if Appleton was to be appointed we would have the same 442 outdated junk which has been served to us previously to no avail and has been criticised by supporters of Portsmouth, Blackpool and Blackburn - clubs whom Appleton managed.
This guy is not even English.
This guy is not even English.Neither is Benteke but don't let that slow you down Mr Griffin.
So what? He has coached some of the best English talent in the country over the last 6 years, would have been a very useful addition to the coaching team.
Neither is Benteke but don't let that slow you down Mr Griffin.
Surely we need to be giving opportunities to young English coaches like Appleton.
How else are we going to get better managers in the future?
This guy is not even English.
Predictions for tonights game?
3-1 England Wooney and a pitch invasion at the end
Seeing an awful lot of arrogance from England supporters on Twitter which is setting us up for a downfall in my opinion. Scotland played very well in their victory in Croatia a month or two ago and from what I've seen have looked much better under Strachan.Croatia also played very VERY poorly....
If a side is going to win it shall be a goal either way, but I personally see this being a 1-1 draw which shall be another embarrassment for English football.
Seeing an awful lot of arrogance from England supporters on Twitter which is setting us up for a downfall in my opinion. Scotland played very well in their victory in Croatia a month or two ago and from what I've seen have looked much better under Strachan.
If a side is going to win it shall be a goal either way, but I personally see this being a 1-1 draw which shall be another embarrassment for English football.
How can you call it arrogance and then say a 1-1 draw would be an embarrassment?
And your point is?
This country is a shambles at running our national game, producing footballers and producing coaches. I read a statistic the other day which stated that the number of British coaches wanting to get into the game is continuing to drop whilst other nations like Spain and Germany continue to rise. I have no problem in choosing English coaches provided they have the qualifications and experience to do the job - more worryingly is that there is very little to choose from and someone like Appleton, who appears to be continuing with out-dated methods is certainly not the way forward for English football - we need to get away from yes men who 'tick the boxes'.
Appointing foreign coaches is an embarrassment.
You talk about Spain and Germany, did they use foreign coaches to turn-around their success?
No.
They did it themselves.
We've got St George's Park now.
Let's do it ourselves.
How Hart is in the team ahead of Foster is beyond me.
How Hart is in the team ahead of Foster is beyond me.
Appointing foreign coaches is an embarrassment.
You talk about Spain and Germany, did they use foreign coaches to turn-around their success?
No.
They did it themselves.
We've got St George's Park now.
Let's do it ourselves.
How Hart is in the team ahead of Foster is beyond me.
How Hart is in the team ahead of Foster is beyond me.He looks too top heavy to me
Ridiculous goalkeeping.
James Morrison scores for Scotland :)
After seeing the replay, I'm more sympathetic. Hart didn't see it until the last moment, and Mozza really hammered it.
Whenever I've seen Scotland, Kenny Miller has usually been absolute dog turd. How can we allow him that much time to get a shot away?
That description would apply to the entire Scotland attack in recent years; tonight is anomalous. But Miller has looked much better recently with Vancouver.
Rickie Lambert is a lot better player than people give him credit for
To be honest, you're quite right, any forward would struggle working for Craig Levein!
I'm going for a 3-2 win. Dorrans and Morrison to both score and play well but a win for England.And for Saturday please :D
I don't think the home nations cup should be brought back, who cares about Wales -v- Northern Ireland for example? But I don't want to wait 14 years for such a fantastic game again. Usually I cannot stand the friendly before the season starts, not this year!the Welsh? The Irish?
I don't think the home nations cup should be brought back, who cares about Wales -v- Northern Ireland for example? But I don't want to wait 14 years for such a fantastic game again. Usually I cannot stand the friendly before the season starts, not this year!
Thought Mozza had a good game. Anyone else agree?
A good job Mozza didn't live a couple of centuries ago,his head would have been on a spike on London Bridge.
England v Scotland would be good every 4 years
I'd say create a tournament every couple of years to coincide with the World Cups and the European Championships. A few years down the line none of us will be qualifying.
Yeah I think Brazil will be our last sniff of qualification for a good while.
You do know that 24 teams will be at Euro 2016?
We will never miss a European Championship,
Euro 2008? Assuming it's the top 2 in every group and then the best 3rd places, even with 24 teams we would have been very close to not qualifying, Israel were below us in 4th just on GD:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2008_qualifying#Group_E
The glaring omission is Carrick, but you won't be far off. Also would not expect Lampard in the starting line-up/strongest XI.I forgot about Carrick if I'm honest mate, he will probably start above Lampard, I just think Lampard can change a game especially in a 3 man midfield where he can float around.
No one discussing Greg Dykes comments about the future of the England team?
Just goes to show how much people really give a monkeys about it.
Have to say my passion for the England team is virtually nil. I'll probably watch the game on Friday if there's nothing else on.
No one discussing Greg Dykes comments about the future of the England team?
Just goes to show how much people really give a monkeys about it.
Have to say my passion for the England team is virtually nil. I'll probably watch the game on Friday if there's nothing else on.
All words and no action.
He's made a lot of blanket statements and I'm sure is hoping that they might turn out to be true. Let's face it, apart from saying what is obvious to everybody, there was very little plan or substance to his words. It's the basic rhetoric you would expect from someone in the position. There was no recognition of how the changes which are made to improve the game actually ending up harming it further (EPPP). Let's face it, even if he does start trying to implement change, the PL will soon kick up and a fuss and he'll get the boot.
The FA do not run the game in this country and there's no point pretending they do.
By my calculations, in ten years time when this world cup comes round, we'll be relying on the 12, 13, 14, 15 year olds of today who lets face it have had the out-dated coaching methods of hoof it and give it your all forced into them so Dyke's wait might just be a bit longer than he anticipates.
Are you involved in coaching Liam? as thats a bit of a sweeping statement.
I've been coaching youth football for quite a few years & having been brought up watching Albion teams playing good football I've always tried to encourage young players to keep the ball & worked on developing their passing ability.
Now whilst I would say that there are still coaches for who the phrase 'get rid of it' seems to of been invented, I have seen changes & initiatives brought in to attempt to include more technical coaching methods.
Hopefully in time we'll turn the corner in this Country & begin to bring through better technical players able to play at the highest level on the World stage but you're totally wrong Liam to assume you know what coaching methods are currently being taught without experiencing them at first hand.
I remember Germans commenting on one of the English sides in a recent World Cup. They were shocked over the lack of technical ability of the English players and said that if a German player wasn't comfortably and consistently able to hit passes to the feet to moving team mates 30 yards away they weren't considered for the national team.
Really? I'd have thought most successful teams, including Germany would be moving away from being concerned over long passing, accuracy or not. To be honest I think most English players would do well at that drill, they're not that technically incompetent.
Indeed its more short quick passes that take apart teams that England have a problem with, alongside their extremely poor movement, rather than their long range passing. That's where England look subpar against teams.
Are you involved in coaching Liam? as thats a bit of a sweeping statement.
I've been coaching youth football for quite a few years & having been brought up watching Albion teams playing good football I've always tried to encourage young players to keep the ball & worked on developing their passing ability.
Now whilst I would say that there are still coaches for who the phrase 'get rid of it' seems to of been invented, I have seen changes & initiatives brought in to attempt to include more technical coaching methods.
Hopefully in time we'll turn the corner in this Country & begin to bring through better technical players able to play at the highest level on the World stage but you're totally wrong Liam to assume you know what coaching methods are currently being taught without experiencing them at first hand.
Saido Berahino has scored on his England debut.
1-0.
Very impressive goal from Berahino too :)
That Redmond kid looks very good as well.
I've watched quite a few Sunday league matches previously and I got that fed up I gave it in. The standard of football whilst I wasn't expecting to be setting the world alight was one which was eye awakening to be honest. I didn't know anybody there to know the age bracket but the number of players who would rather hit the ball long because of a lack of confidence in their own ability was quite worrying - as was the advice being given to them by their coaches and I assume parents on the touchline. It was all very nervy and seemed like players were frightened to hold the ball in case they were culpable of making a mistake.
I watched one of the sides training warm ups prior to a game and wasn't particularly impressed with that either. It seemed incredibly half arsed with little emphasis on possession - one touch pass and move football. Another thing which was evident the lower down the age bracket I got was those who spent more time running with the ball due to size of the pitches than actually maneuvering the ball - they were out of breath after five minutes. Apologies if I offended you with my generalisation, I didn't mean too and it's good to see that there are coaches who are willing to make possession based games a positive.
I'm hoping to get over to Germany in the next two years and whilst I'm there I'll pay great attention to how their training sessions and matches differ to ours - I must be sad if that's what I intend to do with a holiday. Now I have a bit more time on my hands I'm also looking to try and get watching youth side matches in my local area - despite how annoying I found it last time.
Despite the big guns England have on the flanks (Zaha, Redmond) Berahino gets very poor service.to be fair though, Saido's had three defenders on him all game, with the way he's trying to play he's struggling to provide an outlet for them.
When England do well again people will care about them again. For all the excuses about people being sick of the players not caring (which is complete nonsense in the first place and completely misses the point of why England are unsuccessful) it's much like with clubs where attendances and interest fluctuates depending on success.
I find it hard to believe if England were lining up for a world cup semi final next July all these people claiming they couldn't care less would keep that attitude anyway.
How many good England performances have there been since the 5-1 in Germany 12 years ago? Performances that we as England fans can be proud of. Even the glorious failures have been replaced by pathetic exits with a whimper.
oh dear! how poor is the Moldova keeper :o
Its going to be a typical Roy dull game against the Ukraine.A point is a good result over there
Its going to be a typical Roy dull game against the Ukraine.A point is a good result over there
Kyle Walker sniffing Nitrous Oxide in public.Should never play for England again.What happend to its code of conduct
apparently he didn't know what was in it, very naive and stupid if you ask me.With all the drugs testing in sports it could possibly of had some bearing.
Have you seen the recent code of conduct. Shown on Sky this morning.He will be lucky to survive. Some role model eh.
Is he that good anyway. He should be dropped for tomorrows game straight away
Changed my mind Ashley Young is the most overrated England player. Kyle Walker is no better than our own Billy Jones.A good point but no positives apart from the 2 central defenders really.A typical Roy performance. We need you for Saturday Roy
What has annoyed me over the years is that Micah Richards has been overlooked. He in my opinion is Englands best right-back by a country mile.
Roy Hodgson: " 'It was a very good quality game between two teams"
What game was he watching then?
Roy Hodgson: " 'It was a very good quality game between two teams"
What game was he watching then?
He's obviously been borrowing Steve Clarke's "watching Albion" glasses.
If you have a loaded gun in your hand you don't point it at your own head ;)
Most overrated England player ever?.You decide. Kenny Sansom for me.Ricketts
Last night was a case of job done. I think we'll get at least 4 points from the two home games and qualify. If the worse happens and we don't, I'd like to see Ian Holloway replace Roy.
My team tonight would be:
Hart
Walker
Cahill
Jagieka
Baines
Townsend
Gerrard
Lampard
Welbeck
Rooney
Sturridge.
Think we will tonight but have problems Tuesday. Can't believe we have left it this late, didn't even deserve to win in any of the games against Ukraine, Poland or Montenegro so far :(
My team tonight would be:
Hart
Walker
Cahill
Jagieka
Baines
Townsend
Gerrard
Lampard
Welbeck
Rooney
Sturridge.
Glad Roy listened to me :Dseriously on current form , you would of thought Billy Jones was at least in Roys thoughts?
Especially with the bold selection of Townsend, shown great promise and i'm glad he had the effect on the game I thought he could.
Would everybody go the same Tuesday??
I think the only question for me is possibly drop Lampard who looked a bit off the pace, Wilshere or even Barkley could bring that extra drive needed in the centre. Wilshere would probably be the wiser choice for this occasion but I could definitely understand if Hodgson stuck with his guns and kept Lampard in. Barkley has great potential and could definitely earn his place for the world cup, if we get there. I'd imagine he will stick with Townsend, hopefully.
Then finally the replacement for Walker. I would actually edge it for Smalling over Jones who most seem to be going for.
Probably the weakest position for me in terms of defensively, even with Walker and Johnson.
I read today that a quarter of Wembley will be Poland fans on Tuesday night. It was a decent enough performance on Friday night, Townsend played well. I was pleased to see Daniel Sturridge score. It would be a tough game against Poland as there not a bad side but I do think we will go through thoughTheres a joke in there somewhere
In Roy we trust.
Wonderful goal. The best English player of his generation. One of the best ever. Take a bow. Steven Gerrard.
Wonderful goal. The best English player of his generation. One of the best ever. Take a bow. Steven Gerrard.
Just a quick note on the Under 21's.
Ravel Morrison looks promising but his attitude is bugging me already and I've only seen him a couple of times.
And well done Saido :) Again :D
Didn't Morrison have a bust up with Zaha? I haven't seen any if the u-21 game other than Berahino's first, but I heard that happened?
Good performance. Liked the link up play of Rooney, Welbeck and Sturridge.Thought wellbeck and sturridge seem quite awkward when they are on together?
Job done. Well done Roy.
Thought wellbeck and sturridge seem quite awkward when they are on together?
At half time I would have put an extra midfielder on and Defoe , and took both off, but Roy knows best :D
What a load of rubbish England
Summed up well by the Denmark coach. 'Good luck at the World Cup. You're going to need it'.
Decent result and performance against a poor Danish team with no real quality players on show.
We might squeeze a draw out of Italy who can be slow starters but we'll get torn apart by Uruguay. Looking at how our defence has performed for the best part of two years now we will struggle to contain Cavani and Suarez.
It'll go down to the Costa Rica match IMO whether we progress.
Thought Kaspar Schmeicel was excellent in goal.
Plus points for me was the emergence of Lallana, always thought he would come good after watching him score against us as a 17yr old lad. real balance and quality.
Luke Shaw looked good and Glen Johnson played well today
Not his biggest fan but for me on the night probably his best performance for England to date.
Luke Shaw, what energy and Lallana was brilliant when he came on. We do have some useful youngsters coming through. You never know thay might peak in Brazil
Like the ITV panel said what was the point playing Joe Hart in a meaningless friendlyWell
We have a few decent youngsters coming through, Stirling etc .We might do better in the world cup finals than we expect
I agree about the Liverpool players but I'd go a stage further and pick the same diamond formation that they play and test it out in one of the friendlies.
Hart
Johnson. Cahill jagielka. Baines
Gerrard
Henderson. Wilshire/Barkley
Sterling
Rooney. Sturridge
Yep I like that! Perhaps it's a bit adventurous for our Roy!
JD, is that the squad you think will go or the squad you want to go?
Goalkeepers: Hart, Foster, Forster
Defenders: Johnson, Baines, Cole, Cahill, Jagielka, Smalling, Jones
Midfielders: Carrick, Gerrard, Wilshere, Barkley, Henderson
Wingers: Lallana, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Sterling, Milner
Forwards: Sturridge, Rooney, Wellbeck, Lambert
Stand By:
Goalkeeper: Ruddy
Defenders: Walker/Flanagan, Shaw, Caulker
Midfielders: Lampard, Cleverley
Wingers: Young, Johnson
Forwards: Defoe, Carroll
Players like Stones, Flanagan and Zaha won't be taken unless there are injuries I feel.
Do you think England will make the knockout roundsNo I dont. Lose against the eyeties, draw against the nobodies and lose to the south americans..............game over.
B Foster
J Hart
J Ruddy
L Shaw
L Baines
G Johnson
J Flanaghan
G Cahill
P Jagielka
M Dawson
P Jones
S Gerard
M Carrick
A Johnson
J Henderson
A Lallana
A Oxlade-Chamberlain
J Wilshere
R Sterling
W Rooney
D Sturridge
A Carroll
D Welbeck
Hart
Johnson Jagielka Cahill Baines
Gerard Henderson
Stirling Rooney Lallana
Sturridge
Less said about the back four tonight the better I think.
Milner is pants
He's been diabolical tonight
Milner is nailed on to play against Italy. Our Roy loves him.
How do we think Fosters game went.No chance with both goals really.Not helped by his defence
WTF was Roy thinking of playing Milner at right back, Ive seen cheese turn faster than him, and some of those balls he was playing infield to the centre backs were suicidal.
Always reminds me of Waddle, with his slopey shoulders, but without the ability to beat a man.
Yeah I hope that little experiment by Roy has revealed that he should be nowhere near the starting line up let alone the defence! It'll have to be Jones or Smalling as back up RB
Foster didnt rush out needlessly, he rushed out to try to intercept a through ball and /or close a player down who was one on one with him due to a non-existant defence. He was hung out to dry by the pee poor defence and absent midfield cover.
I dont get the Wilshere love-in either, he was rubbish last night, constantly gave the ball away unless it was the simplest of passes, constantly caught in possession and looked as though tomorrow would do.
All I can say is that the team we play in the next warm up which is supposedly the one that will (probably ) be the one we start with against the Italians had better NOT include most of that team that played last night..........and I include Rooney in that. Oxlade Chamberlain being the only one who showed anything, and he's now crocked.
Land back in Blighty wednesday afternoon with their tails between their legsand out the backdoor of Heathrow like so many of their predecessors
It may sound a bit old fashioned but i can't help but feel England have lacked a true ball winner / nasty sod in the middle , De Jong of Holland is a good example...not the most technical but covers and protects .Those days are long gone, any nasty sod wouldn't last 5 minutes and be a liability if sent off. We are not good enough technically. Oh, and Jack Wilshere is the future, god help us. Caught in possession time and again, gave the ball away and couldn't beat anyone. As for our so-called attacking options, we scored 2 poxy goals in 3 matches. Nah, simple answer is we just are not good enough and never will be while money rules the premier league and foreign owners buy foreigners for instant success rather than being forced by the FA to use English players. Then we might see some change, especially with the top teams.
Those days are long gone, any nasty sod wouldn't last 5 minutes and be a liability if sent off. We are not good enough technically. Oh, and Jack Wilshere is the future, god help us. Caught in possession time and again, gave the ball away and couldn't beat anyone. As for our so-called attacking options, we scored 2 poxy goals in 3 matches. Nah, simple answer is we just are not good enough and never will be while money rules the premier league and foreign owners buy foreigners for instant success rather than being forced by the FA to use English players. Then we might see some change, especially with the top teams.That's just my point , we aren't technical enough so maybe need to revert to a ball winner.
That's just my point , we aren't technical enough so maybe need to revert to a ball winner.
Plenty of teams through or on the verge of the last 16 with a ball winner or two , look around.
Those days are long gone, any nasty sod wouldn't last 5 minutes and be a liability if sent off.
Exactly, the days of kicking people and getting away with it are long gone. No top team has a clogger. We are not good enough and its our technique and passing and shooting that needs improving, not our ability to kick people.
We need someone to sit in front of the back four but we don't need some De Jong character. We need to work on technique and ball retention. In the end, when it comes to the crunch that's what will matter.
Segio Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano, Danielle De Rossi, Thiago Motta, Nigel De Jong, Fernandinho, Luis Gustavo are just small examples of nasty sods who are doing quite well in the modern game.
You can be a nasty sod as much as you like in football -
I'd call De Jong nasty but none of the others. Busquets goes down when you blow at him. Some of the others Mascherano, De Rossi, Fernandino, are competitive but I wouldn't call them nasty. De Jong on the other hand I would call nasty, sometimes he deliberately tries to hurt someone.
Exactly, the days of kicking people and getting away with it are long gone. No top team has a clogger. We are not good enough and its our technique and passing and shooting that needs improving, not our ability to kick people.Missing the point , nobody said clogger ...more of a shield type player , lord knows that back 4 need more protection. All about balance , if we are more comfortable defending as a unit our attacking movement may well get better . De Jong may have been a bad example , look at the players Liam listed ....they know how to sit and block and let others do the attacking. It's not fully the answer to England's problems granted but we simply don't have any midfielder to do that role.
Missing the point , nobody said clogger ...more of a shield type player , lord knows that back 4 need more protection. All about balance , if we are more comfortable defending as a unit our attacking movement may well get better . De Jong may have been a bad example , look at the players Liam listed ....they know how to sit and block and let others do the attacking. It's not fully the answer to England's problems granted but we simply don't have any midfielder to do that role.
Strikers are a good point , it will be interesting to see how Sturridge gets on in this years Champs League with Liverpool.
England =shambles.First time since 1958 not to get out of a group stage.Roy Hodgson should leave and the job should go to someone like Gary Neville
I really don't know what the answer is with England. You looked at the US last night and they fought for the shirt. There is no fight and belief from our players. They are going through the motions.
I fear the kind of performance in Brazil will continue for years to come until we become chuffed to bits to just qualify for a tournament like Republic of Ireland and Scotland.
I think Arry summed it up well. Some players just don't want to play. Roy should have a heart to heart with each and every player and ask them straight up if they want to play for England. Don't mean the fancy tournaments but the away games to the Faroe Islands and Moldova etc. If they hum and arr then don't ever pick them again.
There are players in the Championship and League one that would spill blood to play for England so get them on the pitch!
I think the notion that some England players don't care or don't want to play for the shirt is complete and utter nonsense. Once again only in England would people look to shortcomings as a lack of passion.
It's important to remember while everybody is so impressed with the USA and these other teams that show all the fight that the teams that have made it through to the last eight are generally the big sides. If England kept getting as far as the USA did in this tournament it'd be seen as not good enough. Whilst the USA did show plenty of spirit, they do also have some good players lets not forget that and before we dismiss them as not that good ask yourselves how many English players are significantly better.
England's problems on the world stage are plain to see it simply comes down to lack of quality. In this World Cup we scored two goals and created quite a few chances we COULD have got through the group stage. We didn't because of a lack of quality in the final third.. The big teams have the Messi's, Hazard's, Muller's, Neymar's people like this. Our "number 10" is Wayne Rooney who a) despite his ability isn't as good as any of them and b) is constantly played out of position to "do a job for the team". Rooney is regarded as England's best player. If that is the case you play him where he is suited you do not negate your biggest strength. If you don't have a quality number ten you need a quality number 9. We have Daniel Sturridge who despite a good year for Liverpool last year, isn't a Benzema or a Van Persie or a Suarez. He needs two touches to control a ball and has a lack of match intelligence which is why he often makes wrong choices. Lets not forget when he was at Chelsea he couldn't get a game, that is because there are a lot of better strikers than him.
Looking through the rest of the team the midfield containing Gerrard / Henderson isn't technically good enough. Both are typical Premiership 100 mph players. Neither has a grade A first touch, neither can play a technical game. Gerrard at his best was a box to box high energy type player, great in the Premiership, a waste of time in international tournament football. Defensively Johnson and Jagielka aren't good enough by a fair distance.
When you put these things together you see why we fail. Add to these the likes of Welbeck who should never wear an England shirt. We lump the USA under "passion" yet most of their players are on a par with England's technically.
The problem is with English mentality and it still isn't changing enough. Commentators on TV keep constantly going on about pace. Pace, pace, pace. We have to get out of that mentality. 90% of players at this level have a good level of pace. We in England see pace as an answer - "he has the pace to run behind and cause problems" it's nonsense, pace like effort will get you so far it will not make you world champions. Last night the useless Danny Murphy was asked what he thought about the Belgium striker Irigi. His answer was typical "Well he's quick and he's strong". First thing he said. Nothing about his mental awareness or his touch or his game intelligence or his movement. That sort of mentality has to go in England it really does and then the passion mentality needs to follw suit. We in England forgive people for trying and would rather see someone run around for ninety minutes and be totally ineffective than appreciate one defence splitting pace by a player who just patrols the centre circle.
The education needs to start with kids then when they become professionals they need to play in Premiership teams not loaned out. The Premiership needs to change. To be fair it has, there is so much more quality now than there was fifteen / twenty years ago the trouble is most of the quality players are foreign. If we need to dilute the quality of the premiership for a while then so be it. We need to overload our top flight with ENGLISH players but that alone is not the answer it's only part of it. Unless we teach our kids the technical side of the game at a very early age so it becomes second nature to them we are never going to get any better.
The education needs to start with kids then when they become professionals they need to play in Premiership teams not loaned out. The Premiership needs to change. To be fair it has, there is so much more quality now than there was fifteen / twenty years ago the trouble is most of the quality players are foreign. If we need to dilute the quality of the premiership for a while then so be it. We need to overload our top flight with ENGLISH players but that alone is not the answer it's only part of it. Unless we teach our kids the technical side of the game at a very early age so it becomes second nature to them we are never going to get any better.
Why force Premiership clubs to serve the needs of international football, for the sake of one tournament every two years? I'm guessing a substantial majority in England are far more dedicated to their clubs.
Personally, I'd much prefer to see the end of international football and FIFA.
We need to overload our top flight with ENGLISH players
I probably should have highlighted the particular sentence I took issue with, which is this:
A rule that keeps foreign players out of the Premiership will not help English footballers improve.
It is definitely a problem that not just English players, but all youth players at a lot of clubs have extremely little chance of breaking through at most squads - whilst clubs can go abroad and get an international with the money in the premier, that will always be a problem unless you bring in regulations.
Chelsea are a prime example, they buy the best youth players from around the world, yet not a single player has broke through in Abramovich, and only Bertrand has even been anything like an actual squad member. Why? Well when Chelsea can pay 25m and bring in a German international with 30 caps in the same position rather than promote an academy player, well they always well.
At best this stunts players development, at worst it destroys them and they never become the players they should have been.
I don't think anyone objects to good foreign players being signed, but there's clearly a lot of sub-par foreigners bought in too. If you made every 25 man squad so it had to be 13 England eligible players (or players who were once eligibl to allow for the likes of James Morrison who switch) for example, that allows clubs to bring in plenty of foreign players, whilst also meaning they rely on their academies for squad fillers rather than bring in rubbish from abroad. Unless you force clubs to use their academies, they generally won't, with few exceptions.
Part of the problem can also be seen in this thread - anyone who thinks its due to passion that England failed is so far off you can only hope they're nowhere near the coaching side of things. Whilst English people have this mentality that "passion" overrides all, youth coaching will go nowhere. The US play within a system built to within their needs, when England did that in Euro 2012 and took Italy to penalties everyone complained, when they tried to play a more technical approach, naturally they failed because other teams produce more technical players. Absolutely nothing to do with effort.
It is definitely a problem that not just English players, but all youth players at a lot of clubs have extremely little chance of breaking through at most squads - whilst clubs can go abroad and get an international with the money in the premier, that will always be a problem unless you bring in regulations.
Chelsea are a prime example, they buy the best youth players from around the world, yet not a single player has broke through in Abramovich, and only Bertrand has even been anything like an actual squad member. Why? Well when Chelsea can pay 25m and bring in a German international with 30 caps in the same position rather than promote an academy player, well they always well.
At best this stunts players development, at worst it destroys them and they never become the players they should have been.
I don't think anyone objects to good foreign players being signed, but there's clearly a lot of sub-par foreigners bought in too. If you made every 25 man squad so it had to be 13 England eligible players (or players who were once eligibl to allow for the likes of James Morrison who switch) for example, that allows clubs to bring in plenty of foreign players, whilst also meaning they rely on their academies for squad fillers rather than bring in rubbish from abroad. Unless you force clubs to use their academies, they generally won't, with few exceptions.
I cant see how anyone would want to do away with International Football??
I certainly don't and im sure the players and the football community wouldn't either!!
I think the notion that some England players don't care or don't want to play for the shirt is complete and utter nonsense. Once again only in England would people look to shortcomings as a lack of passion.
What overreactive Daily Mail nonsense. Yeah as a professional footballer, he probably shouldn't be indulging in it (although one hit is hardly going to damage his health that much). But then ideally footballers wouldn't drink either. But it was legal and you'll find it freely available at a lot of nightclubs. He's done nothing wrong.I can say pub culture has been the biggest reason behind fall of english football..Must be banned for players..
It really is a complete non story. Man does something legal once that if done regularly can damage health. Might as well ask for anyone who's ever smoked ecigs (http://www.ecigfiend.com) or drank alcohol to be dropped and banned by that logic.
It was one big FA jolly up really.
I notice we have dropped in the FIFA rankings to 20th now. I think its a fair reflection. Look at the teams above us. I wouldn't fancy us to beat any of them.
I can say pub culture has been the biggest reason behind fall of english football..Must be banned for players..
Would be interesting to see the financial investment rankings, easily top ten maybe even top 5 and for what.
We had the hardest group in the tournament and that's reflected by the three other nations being in the top 20.please don't make excuses for them.
All the failures got rid of their head coaches but we our worst world cup in 50 years decide to plod on with what we have got.Typical suits at the FA aint got no balls
We had the hardest group in the tournament and that's reflected by the three other nations being in the top 20.
I think the issue lies with academy kids and lack of protection. Look at Izzy Brown, a great prospect, poached away at a net loss. Why the hell as a club would you then invest in a grade A academy with zero protection? Until some sort of percentage sell on clause is attached to all academy kids, academies up and down the country will be more of a novelty than a front runner for all football clubs. That is how you develop players, it's not to do with foreigners or passion.
Great player but never really transferred his club form for his country for a number of reasons.
He looked way past his best in Brazil so its a good decision. It will no doubt extend his career by a few years.
I think he is genuinely concerned about his place in the Liverpool team now. His legs have gone which was a huge part of his game.
Always knew he would retire. Not unexpected.It's gotta be Joe Hart. He's head and shoulders above the rest.
Poor World Cup for him personally too.
Interesting to see who gets it next
Another boring international performance.
If offered the opportunity I'd get rid of international football.
Think we do need to build a team around Sterling and Sturridge.
Our best 2 players over the last season or so. Think Barkley would replace Wilshere for me once hes fully fit and on form.
Think the move to Arsenal may do Welbeck the world of good.
Jack wilshire Just said they didnt get enough credit for the World Cup :o Brainwashed by the FA
I think he's got a point. We weren't as bad as some have suggested, there was much more to be positive about than the World Cup in 2010.
Lost two drawn one and bottom of the group... No wonder you don't mind Irvine mate...
Ouch! :oHow many times do we hear from players that you make your own luck in football or the better you are the luckier you are ;)
The Italy and Uruguay games could have gone either way, we definitely didn't deserve to lose both but that's football and matches are sometimes won and lost by fine margins. Euro 2016 will be the tournament that define's Hodgson's reign.
Do these guys get a wage playing for England?
Do these guys get a wage playing for England?
Good performance. Sterling MOTM, thought Delph also did well.
Need to look past the Villa link, he was decent after a shakey start. He looked like a school kid getting his first game, full of energy and flying into tackles. Could have easily been sent off. After that he settled and played well.
Like others have said, actually enjoyed last nights game, first time for a while.
It's nothing to do with the Villa link. Delph isn't good enough and when it comes to top games against top teams he'll look the level he is. Same as Welbeck and Jones and others.
Fabian Delph's "engine" will mean absolutely nothing when it really matters, his lack of match intelligence and footballing technique will show him up for the distinctly average footballer he is.
our friendly with Scotland in November apparently cause for concern
Im not suprised, they are looking a half decent team at the min. But they will tail off eventually they always do, not enough consistency in the team
our friendly with Scotland in November apparently cause for concernMove the fixture to Andorra. Then we'd see some rubber crumb filling the air. ;D
Hodgson has gone down in my estimation by saying this.So much for always picking the best player at that time for the job. Berahino is streets ahead of where Lambert is THIS SEASON, tghis statement is an absolute damning enditement of the selection process. But lets be honest, we always new the score with England anyway, just ask Bomber and Derek Statham, Ray Barlow, Joe Kennedy, the list goes on
Hodgson: 'Lambert is in the squad on merit. He impressed me somewhat last season, and moreso after his summer move to Liverpool. He was good during the world cup, and although he hasn't played as much so far this season, he's still been impressive. His place wasn't in doubt in my mind. I know there has been calls for Berahino to replace him, and he has been playing and scoring for my other old team West Brom. But people don't understand the gravitas of playing for Liverpool. Lambert playing infrequently for Liverpool is still a step up than playing and scoring for West Brom in my mind.'
Thats going to do Berahinos confidence a whole load of good, says a lot about england selections in general
Even Crouch should be in there over Lambert, atleast he's playing and scoring.
Hodgson has gone down in my estimation by saying this.
Hodgson: 'Lambert is in the squad on merit. He impressed me somewhat last season, and moreso after his summer move to Liverpool. He was good during the world cup, and although he hasn't played as much so far this season, he's still been impressive. His place wasn't in doubt in my mind. I know there has been calls for Berahino to replace him, and he has been playing and scoring for my other old team West Brom. But people don't understand the gravitas of playing for Liverpool. Lambert playing infrequently for Liverpool is still a step up than playing and scoring for West Brom in my mind.'
Thats going to do Berahinos confidence a whole load of good, says a lot about england selections in general
Where's the source can't find it anywhere on the web ?.
Surely, if Saido is banging them in playing for an inferior team that puts him ahead a Lambert who isn't setting the world alight playing in a more experienced\expensive Liverpool team?
Its about time that UEFA realised that the like of San Marino, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg etc are never going to be anything except a training game for the rest of Europe. Even the fans can't be bothered to turn out to watch a game of attack v defence.
San Marino not won any of their last 57 games.
Why can't UEFA organise a different competition for these lesser footballing nations? At least one of them would be in with a chance of winning something
Feel sorry for them to be honest. Having to get beat like that on a regular basis. They barely ever score let alone win!Feel quite jealous myself. Although the San Marino players are far better than me, I would have loved to have a San Marinan grandfather to give me a chance at International football.
Anyone going down the custard to support Saido ?
Yes- off tonight. Never attended a live U21 England game previously. Apparently expecting a decent crowd tonight. Looking forward to see how Saido gets on later today.
Croatia v England u21
http://www.wiziwig.tv/broadcast.php?matchid=284971&part=sports
http://www.firstrows.eu/
Thanks for this. Really looking forward to this tonight. Have to say for me U21s is more interesting than the full team at the moment.
Don't think there would be much interest here if it wasn't for Berahino.
On the flipside of that, I was dissapointed to see Berahino wasted on the wide left. He looked lost and annoyed out there
I dont know how Chris Smalling gets in these squads.
Bomber would walk into this current team and so would Statham and Batson.
Competiton in the 70s didnt help. for Bomber only to get one cap there must have been some footballer out there.
Has Berahino scored yet? ;DUnlikely to seeing as the utterly clueless Wellbeck is playing instead of Saido !!
Watching England is like watching paint dry
Unlikely to seeing as the utterly clueless Wellbeck is playing instead of Saido !!
Unlikely to seeing as the utterly clueless Wellbeck is playing instead of Saido !!
Tends to score a few though ey?!? Never far from getting stick or goals.About 20-odd, id guess 24-25.
Highly likely we won't see Saido in this one now I think. Always thought he was more likely to get minutes v Scotland.
Caesar still looks a nutter! Did he ever play for us much?!
Tends to score a few though ey?!?
No start for Saido but ex Baggie Bostjan Cesar starts for Slovenia
ATOMIC,I think you are wrong in relating "flat track bully" to horse racing. It is really a cricketing term usually aimed a Graeme Hick by his detractors. No matter how many runs he scored, lots of people outside Worcestershire could not accept his great talent.
ATOMIC,I think you are wrong in relating "flat track bully" to horse racing. It is really a cricketing term usually aimed a Graeme Hick by his detractors. No matter how many runs he scored, lots of people outside Worcestershire could not accept his great talent.
So whos up for the Scotland game :). If our 2 start lets hope its not too physical
The FA had to return around 2,000 tickets because we couldn't sell them - pretty poor when you factor in the Scots brought upwards of 15,000 to Wembley.Unfortunately I have couple mates with same opinion they laughed when we got knocked out of the world cup ??? Don't get it myself saying you would be happy for the Scots to beat our national team I can't quite understand that.
Really not arsed about the game either such is my dissatisfaction with England and the FA. I take very little emotional interest in the national side and I would not be bothered if Scotland turned us over - dare I say, I might even crack a smile for my Scottish pals.
Unfortunately I have couple mates with same opinion they laughed when we got knocked out of the world cup ??? Don't get it myself saying you would be happy for the Scots to beat our national team I can't quite understand that.
That's everything wrong with this country! A complete and utter lack of any national pride...I don't get it at all either BobTaylor.Unfortunately very true and btw I'm very mild patriotic wise compared to some that follow England all over the country but you can't disagree with that point.
Fair weather national fans, but the first people too cheer and want in on national pride if and when we do anything!
I will always have pride in my national side even if I don't like what I see a lot of the time!
It's why this country has gone to the dogs as no one has any pride in their country anymore
I want England to win, no doubting that.
I just have no attachment towards them like I do to the England side in the cricket. I don't buy into all this patriotic nonsense that some people do. I watched the majority of our Ashes campaign where we were thumped 5-0 down under - that hurt. I watched England exit a world cup without laying a punch in their group stages and I didn't really give a toss. Infact, I enjoyed the tournament much more when we were out. If Scotland beat us then well done to them - I'll smile for my mates - I won't lose any sleep over it like I know some people will.
That's everything wrong with this country! A complete and utter lack of any national pride...I don't get it at all either BobTaylor.
Fair weather national fans, but the first people too cheer and want in on national pride if and when we do anything!
I will always have pride in my national side even if I don't like what I see a lot of the time!
It's why this country has gone to the dogs as no one has any pride in their country anymore
You don't buy into all this patriotic nonsense?? What does that mean exactly?
Being proud of your country is the first step toward making a better country for me. Not having that national pride means to me couldn't careless what happens to England full stop. You may not agree or understand that and that's your perogative but it's not something I can say I've ever not had.
The politicians are taking away our identity and personally I hate it!
Tell me, if England had won a major tournament and had made the SF or Final of major tournaments over the last 20 years would you feel more love for the national football team or would you still feel disconnected and more hurt at a failing cricket team?
Genuine question that is and not attempting to knock you!
will there be any england supporters there :oI used to attend this fixture in the late 70's/early 80's. At Hampden, you'd struggle to see an England fan. At Wembley, the Scots would outnumber us 10 to one. This match means everything to a Scottish footie fan. Some England fans may be apathetic to this fixture, but some of us understand the hurt to our near neighbours with defeat. I, for one, would much rather be on the winning side, especially when outnumbered by so much. On a side note, my last visit to Hampden for a Scot v Eng was 30 years ago, and remember very little about the game apart from Steve Hunt entering onto the pitch. I shall feel just as much pride if Saido does the same.
Thats my view seems a pointless selection if he wasnt going to start one of the two games.Quite often, a player is brought into the England fold in order for them to become accustomed to the way things are done. Just being among household names can be quite daunting to a newcomer.
Great goal, sssssshhhhhhh Scotland
Not England related but Morrison has done ok since he come on
Any idea why Forster was preferred to Foster tonight for the full ninety minutes ?
I hear Roy might be staying on for the world cups now, i am really not excited by this
What do people expect from him? This is the worst England team in years, we've got little coming through, and the selection pool is the shallowest its ever been.
Qualification for the tournament, maybe getting past the group stage, is as good as it will get for the foreseeable.
What do people expect from him? This is the worst England team in years, we've got little coming through, and the selection pool is the shallowest its ever been.
Qualification for the tournament, maybe getting past the group stage, is as good as it will get for the foreseeable.
I agree but Hodgson is a bit dour and hardly helps get fans going for the occasion.
I wish Arry would have been given the gig. For two reasons, 1) Hodgson would have stayed with us and 2) he has a lot more character than Roy and there would be more of an air of optimism around the country.
how can the England job be performance related. We don't have the players to do the job, whoever was in charge would fail.
Its a bit like employing a decorator without any brushes and then moaning when the painting is 5hite.
The team is hardly that bad, currently easing qualifying ahead of Switzerland who made the last 16 at the last world cup. It's fair to say a minimum expectation for Euro 2016 is getting out the group stage, and really probably the quarter final beyond that.
For some reason people lose all logic with England, might not be the best team in the world but far from the awful side a lot make out either.
sorry Dan, but I disagree, who do we have who is world class, or even would get in a European top 11?
Answer = no-one.
Who do we have who is an international quality defender = no-one.
The team is hardly that bad, currently easing qualifying ahead of Switzerland who made the last 16 at the last world cup. It's fair to say a minimum expectation for Euro 2016 is getting out the group stage, and really probably the quarter final beyond that.
For some reason people lose all logic with England, might not be the best team in the world but far from the awful side a lot make out either.
I'd love the next manager after Hodgson to be Gary Neville who's already in the England set up. He has a fantastic knowledge of the game as shown in his punditry, I think he'd know how to man manage players, would instantly gain their respect and has played under one of the great managers in Sir Alex. Phil Neville could be assistant.
Berahino left out of the England squad :(
Anybody else think that Lescott deserved a call up over Jagielka, Jones, Smalling
Lescott has had a good season for us and is the same age as Jagielka. I'm disappointed for him.
Also suprised that they havent called another keeper up to make it 3 (with Foster being injured).
Im shocked Walker has got back into the squad too. Hes looked half the player he was last season, whether that be down to the injury or form or what not.
I don't see how Jagielka, Jones, Smalling can be classed as England's future if Lescott is yesterday's man
nor me to be honest. Just goes to underline the fact that England is not producing decent defenders at the moment.
Going to both of them lithuania and italy, can't wait for italy but the only reason we're going to the lithuania game is due to the FA's stupid rule of gaining one cap for away games and now two for home games just so more people go to wembley. Absolute joke of a rule!
Going to both of them lithuania and italy, can't wait for italy but the only reason we're going to the lithuania game is due to the FA's stupid rule of gaining one cap for away games and now two for home games just so more people go to wembley. Absolute joke of a rule!
surely it should be the other way round
You would think so wouldn't you, done by the FA to make sure they sell the home tickets.
Someone could spend a couple of thousand travelling across Europe to 6 away games and receive 6 caps whereas someone could go to 4 home and one away and have 9 caps and therefore having more chance of getting tournament tickets.
That's our FA for you
I think is typically synical of the FA, as they strive to make the new Wembly viable.I did an extended essay, based on the location of the New National Stadium, for a degree course I was doing at the time. Everything pointed toward Birmingham as the ideal location. Then it became political. All common sense went out the window after that.
They should have built the new stadium in the Midlands on a greenfield site and maybe the wouldn't be so money grabbing, but I doubt that as well.
Going to both of them lithuania and italy, can't wait for italy but the only reason we're going to the lithuania game is due to the FA's stupid rule of gaining one cap for away games and now two for home games just so more people go to wembley. Absolute joke of a rule!
Its beyond stupid, was going to become england fans + member or whatever it called now for France tickets chance, but decided against it after this rule, Its ******* stupid rule to try and get people to home game.
Just saved the money and will look for tickets through uefa and touts by the ground, cheaper than going to all the games
Its worth it for the away games, I'm going to Italy, Ireland and Slovenia with in the next 10 weeks. A few nights in each country on the beer with mates, can't beat it!
Evening.
Hope you don't mind me asking, but what do you do for a living?
You must be absolutely minted.
For Italy next week; return flights from Stansted to Genoa, return train from Genoa to Turin, One night in Genoa and one night in Turin and a match ticket has altogether come to £179 which I think is quite cheap, hostel may be a bit crappy but as long as I have somewhere to sleep and have a shower I'm not to fussed.
So Hodgson will be having contract talks with England soon, hope he stays on for another few tournaments.
Haha, far from it mate just a normal job in civil service, the fact I'm 23 and live with parents still with hardly any responsibilities make it easier.
For Italy next week; return flights from Stansted to Genoa, return train from Genoa to Turin, One night in Genoa and one night in Turin and a match ticket has altogether come to £179 which I think is quite cheap, hostel may be a bit crappy but as long as I have somewhere to sleep and have a shower I'm not to fussed.
I thinks his contract negotiations will depend on the Euro Finals.He has failed the last 2 finals
The World Cup was so bad though. I can't recall a worse WC. Granted its the worst set of players any England manager has to call upon since god knows when but even so I think he needs a good Euro 2016 if he is to stay on.USA? Didn't we fail to qualify at all for that one?
USA? Didn't we fail to qualify at all for that one?
this England team can give anyone a game
If we beat Italy convincingly, I might be inclined to accept that, but seriously, my opinion is that our defence is abject, and will be exposed by a top team !
its a terrible indictment of the current squad that players like Jagielka and Smalling are on the periphery.
Not saying they should or shouldn't,
in response to someone saying we could give anyone a game, I'm just saying that IMO we need better defenders before we could give the top countries a true test
I agree mate, the best way to look at it is..
If we truely believe we can go all the way in a tournament, you have to beat the best teams. When you look at the line up Germany, Spain, Italy, France, Holland etc how many of our back 4 would demand a start in their first 11?
Holland are a really good example of why England should do a lot better really, their team at the world cup was nothing special but a well organised team, playing to a suitable system with a good manager is extremely difficult to beat and they were penalties from a world cup final playing the likes of Ron Vlaar! Their only genuine world class player was Robben. The defence in particularly severely lacked quality.
Of course they also show how the opposite of those things can lead to a struggle because they're struggling to get to Euro 2016 even with the expanded 24 teams that make failure almost impossible.
Think you're being harsh on the Netherlands! Sneijder, Van Persie, Blind...all 'world class' players.
Sneijder hasn't been world class in a long time, there's a reason he was sold for 7.5m Euro's a couple of years back. Van Persie's in decline, he certainly has world class moments but Man U fans weren't too happy with him a lot of the time last season. Blind is only world class if you have an extremely low bar for such a level.
Seven straight wins for the England team, shows how well Hodgson is doing.
Great win for the England U21 team as they beat Germany 3-2. Things are looking good for the future of the national team. I really think England can win some major trophies in the next few years.
i wouldn't call Rooney or Hart world class.
Barcelona have 3 forwards I would rate higher than Rooney for starters
Hart is too erratic to be world class, he was ousted by the guy who is sunderlands keeper not so long ago.
What games are up and comming in June?
how the heck does Chris smalling keep getting picked, oh i forgot he plays for Man Ure
I wouldn't worry about Vardy getting picked, he's only in because 3 strikers that would have been in are in the 21s.
Rooney, Sturridge, Welbeck, Kane, Ings, Berahino, Austin... I make him 8th choice at best.
how the heck does Chris smalling keep getting picked, oh i forgot he plays for Man Ure
An England squad containing relegated players and a call up for a striker with more bookings than goals this season.
An England squad containing relegated players and a call up for a striker with more bookings than goals this season.
Whos off to Ireland
Im flying out tomorrow morning from Birmingham and return Monday evening, can't wait!
Finished 0-0 with the ROI. Lot of huff and puff but not too much quality. Not suprising really at the end of the season.Just a warm up for both teams. Ireland be happy with defensive solidity. England probably holding back a bit.
I do like Hodgson but at the same time, his approach to England is becoming tiresome.
We shouldn't have the likes of Vardy playing, or Cleverly near the team when they're nowhere near good enough. It's all nice and romantic for the likes of Vardy but he's bang average. At the same time, games like these should be viewed as tests for players who are on the fringes of the team. NOT, players who will never contribute anything to an England tournament.
Out of interest - who should have gone instead of Vardy? Baring in mind Berahino and Kane are featuring for the Under 21s.I get your point, the quality isn't there like it was with Sven (midfielders like Lampard, Gerrard, Beckham and Scholes would be the best players in the current squad, and the defense was far superior too).
People still insisting Arry would do a better job ::).
i await the backlash but someone like Tim Sherwood for meYou been drinking mate? Sherwood!!!!!!!!! FFS. His head wouldn't get through the door at the FA's HQ.
To be honest - I think you need a figurehead that the nation can get behind, rather than an amazing coach.
Becks & Neville together for me
Off to Slovenia in the morning, hope to God the game is better than last week possibly the worst I've ever attended!
The guy should have gone for that elbow on Rooney!
Bostjan Cesar always did have a wild side :D
Was sitting in the garden with a crappy connection so I've only seen bits and bobs of the second half. Watch since te 75th, how's it been? Seems a great ending at least!
Where do you live?! Abroad ?
Nope same place as me Cornwall...its gorgeous down here today!
infact he lives about 2-3 miles from me in the next village
Yes and we still haven't met up! I wish I met up with you for that Man U game but it bloody clashed with something! We should have a pint this summer at a beach bar somewhere.Ever heard of a tv. It's all the rage apparently. :D
And the connection didn't get to us in the garden as I'm in an old Cornish cottage with thick granite walls, ruins the wireless signal!
Ever heard of a tv. It's all the rage apparently. :D
Been to Slovenia a couple of times. Nice place and nice people. A bit like Wales (but as I said with nice people ;).
Issue for us though is it has a population of some 2.5m people as opposed to our 60m. We did play well, but we need some proportion as to how good we are.
Yes and we still haven't met up! I wish I met up with you for that Man U game but it bloody clashed with something! We should have a pint this summer at a beach bar somewhere.
And the connection didn't get to us in the garden as I'm in an old Cornish cottage with thick granite walls, ruins the wireless signal!
Good luck to the under 21s for there first game in the tournament on Thursday to, Anyone know if its on sky ?.
Absolutely fella...all for that!
I also live in a thick granite wall cottage...I lose all signal!
Yeah no chance of streaming live TV in the garden! Coolio i'll check things out and see when i'm free!
TV ws inside and the sun was outside, that is where the problem was! So I chose laptop in the garden!
Have you considered Poweline Adaptors, like the Develo unit that I use.
They are connected to your router and then into a power socket turning your ring main into a wifi signal carrier, thus extending the range of your WiFi.
For a more detail spec on these gadgets Google "powerline Adaptors" some are quite reasonably priced and a couple should do the job for you.
Sad thing for me is that after yesterdays performance, a lot of people seemed relatively pleased. Obviously a win is the main thing, but as a performance it was very sloppy.
I see the under 21s are being thoroughly outclassed on the big stage..
Tonight's result is a real shame, Southgate had done a terrific job before this tournament so I hope there's no kneejerk reactions.
Our players are just so over rated. Its criminal how we (press and fans) build them up so much and that includes our senior players. We have become a nation of average players who will struggle to qualify for tournaments in the near future unless the Premier League changes and brings in clauses to ensure young English players are given every chance and cheap average foreign imports are stopped. We will become a Scotland and Republic of Ireland and will just be happy to qualify.Nail on head!
I'd disagree with that. Thinking about the top 5 or 6 clubs, there is a real emphasis on technical ability to try to compete with the European giants. Teams like Arsenal have very gifted, technical players (Wilshere, Sanchez, Ozil, Ramsey, Oxlade-Chamberlain etc), and the same for Chelsea (Hazard, Oscar, Fabregas). Liverpool under Rodgers seek to play with skillful players like Sterling and Coutinho, so I do think we're getting there.You are right and I did think about it as I was writing it, what I should have said is that no team outside the top 6, or the 'soup' as I like to call it, can afford to take the risk.
The problem is seen further down the league where there's a lot of pressure to get results (not to say there isn't at the top!), and when you're fighting for survival it's harder to justify the inclusion of younger, less experienced players.
Personaly speaking are these players hungry enough?. The English 'Lad' culture of Boozing and smoking doesnt help. Finishing bottom of the group with only 2 goals from 3 games, i believe i read England only had a total of 6 shots on target in 3 games. Pretty poor if that is true.
Roy's after a new deal. A good show at the Euro's then I'd give him till the World Cup at least.
Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere facing lengthy layoff with leg injury, England midfielder has suspected hairline fracture of his left fibula and is expected to miss England’s qualifiers in September.
http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/aug/05/arsenal-jack-wilshere-injury-england (http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/aug/05/arsenal-jack-wilshere-injury-england)
But is not expected to require surgery.
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/jack-wilshere-unlikely-to-need-surgery-on-ankle-injury-but-arsenal-midfielder-will-miss-england-internationals-10442476.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/jack-wilshere-unlikely-to-need-surgery-on-ankle-injury-but-arsenal-midfielder-will-miss-england-internationals-10442476.html)
Could this affect Gnabry loan???
Could this affect Gnabry loan???
are we all excited with the forth coming England games, san marino saturday
wales above england in the rankings :o ;DGareth Bale above England in the rankings.
Gareth Bale above England in the rankings.
I'll be there, looking forward to the weekend in Rimini and a chance to see San Marino where I probably would never go if it wasn't for the football more than the game as you probably can imagine.
so with us playing San Marino and most likely a goal feast Rooney is most likely to beat Bobby Charltons record, sad really
Not really. Bobby had similar sort of games, as does everyone else;80-1?? Who scored the one?
Charlton scored hat tricks against Luxembourg and USA (who we beat 10-0 and 80-1 and weren't anywhere near as competitive as they are now).
so with us playing San Marino and most likely a goal feast Rooney is most likely to beat Bobby Charltons record, sad really
He'll get the record this week. It's a shame that we don't appreciate him as much as we should but the romance of football isn't what it was. I'll congratulate him for what is a great achievement.
Its the modern thing of build them up over the top early doors only to knock them for the rest of their career.
Excellent player Rooney is
Its the modern thing of build them up over the top early doors only to knock them for the rest of their career.
Excellent player Rooney is
Doesn't matter how many he gets, he'll never touch Greaves or Lineker or even Owen at the top of his game.
Agree that I don't think he is as good a striker as any of them.
However he is a better footballer than all of them
100% record in qualification and off to Euro 2016, fantastic. Hodgson has done a cracking job in this qualification campaign. I really think we'll have a good tournament next year.
Rooney been spoken about as a footballing god. How many of his goals have come against smaller nations like San Marino or the Faroe Islands?Spot on.How many goals would Bobby Charlton scored against the Minnow teams
Scored against countries that didn't even exist is bobby charltons day. His record against te big boys and in the major tournaments is abhorrent. Not in the same league as sir bobby charlton in my eyes
Eh?
Spot on.How many goals would Bobby Charlton scored against the Minnow teams
Couple of points
Rooney is the closest we currently have to world class, you may not like him but he can play football
Roy deserves a fair crack , he should get the semis of the next tournament
Replacement , difficult?, pullis, monk,bergkamp,could go safe or could go leftfield, I'd like Wenger
Makes me laugh when people talk about goals in major tournaments. What about major goals in major tournaments. Notably a certain brace someone scored in a certain semi final some time ago.
Rooney hasn't scored a single goal in a major championship in the knockout stages.
Makes me laugh when people talk about goals in major tournaments. What about major goals in major tournaments. Notably a certain brace someone scored in a certain semi final some time ago.
Rooney hasn't scored a single goal in a major championship in the knockout stages.
Of the other greats in his generation, Ibrahimovic never scored a goal in the knock out rounds, Lionel Messi never scored in a world cup knock out game, scored only 3 in 16 copa america games, Cristiano Ronaldo's never scored in a world cup knockout game....
I wonder if people in their countries give them as much stick as Rooney gets. I suspect not.
Of the other greats in his generation, Ibrahimovic never scored a goal in the knock out rounds, Lionel Messi never scored in a world cup knock out game, scored only 3 in 16 copa america games, Cristiano Ronaldo's never scored in a world cup knockout game....
I wonder if people in their countries give them as much stick as Rooney gets. I suspect not.
Rooney is the best England player since Gazza.
Which sort of leads me onto - Rooney never scores when it really matters, the biggest stages at the most important times. That's what sorts out the greats from the goods. They deliver when it REALLY matters.
We have done bliming well to have a 100% record so far and be the first team to qualify, Well done Roy and the players.
If we can make it out the groups I will be satisfied anything after that is a bonus.
I dunno about that, it is a very weak group, no real competition at all. No other big side in the group. Switzerland used to be good.
Well done Rooney, one of the greatest to play for England. Great win last night, Hodgson is doing a cracking job with this team.
I bet the Queen cringed a bit when he scored.
I bet she thought' 'Fek me Philip, arise Sir Wayne has a certain council estate ring about it hey what?'
We as Albion fans understand but that lot watching in the pub last night were talking about paint drying
Have to disagree I thought England played some lovely football.
Have to disagree I thought England played some lovely football.
Not sure what you were watching. I nearly fell asleep in the ground first half.
Sterling - Useless
Any of you guys going to the forth coming England games
Couldn't get a ticket for Lithuania away as there were only 800 available. :(
I know it's only Estonia but some nice passing stuff from England . The sooner they move those corporates the better or the cameras . It's embaressing they still taking there seat half way throught the second half
I know it's only Estonia but some nice passing stuff from England . The sooner they move those corporates the better or the cameras . It's embaressing they still taking there seat half way throught the second halfIf you saw how sparsely populated it was behind the cameras, then you'd understand. ;)
I didn't watch.
Was it the usual dross from England?
We have done very well to be within touching distance of winning all our games, that in itself is an achievement.
Got to go down to Wembley Friday unfortunately just to get the caps! If anyone fancies 4 tickets to the France friendly in November at Wembley by the way get in touch as we would be happy to let them go.When game v Spain was announced it was only proposed as Spain hadnt qualified at the time! I looked online on Spanish sites & tickets not yet on sale but one uk site was quoting €130 for one with 10% discount for more than one ffs - I'm near Alicante might see if I can get some from the ground if its not too expensive its only a friendly after all!
Couldn't get a ticket for Lithuania away as there were only 800 available. :(
Next away for me is Spain in November.
When game v Spain was announced it was only proposed as Spain hadnt qualified at the time! I looked online on Spanish sites & tickets not yet on sale but one uk site was quoting €130 for one with 10% discount for more than one ffs - I'm near Alicante might see if I can get some from the ground if its not too expensive its only a friendly after all!live about an hour south and have been looking but cant find where to buy them from although the ground has its own website with e mail address so may try there next week.
What a great job Hodgson has done, 9 wins out of 9 in qualification. I really think with a bit of luck that England can win Euro 2016.
What a great job Hodgson has done, 9 wins out of 9 in qualification. I really think with a bit of luck that England can win Euro 2016.
what ground in spain are they playing?
It's in Alicante mateEstadio José Rico Perez home of Hercules cf in Alicante.
Wayne Rooney is out for two months so he will miss the next 2 England friendlies, will he make the euros? is he picked because of who he is anyway. For me its time to blood young hungryShould "blood" them before the Euros.
He deservedly gets picked.
Without doubt our best player and we will not realise how good and important he is until he retires.
My only gripe with Rooney is that I don't think he reached the potential he could have reached.
Not having it, wouldn't have him near the starting XI.
Not having it, wouldn't have him near the starting XI.
Who would you have out of interest?
Rashford of Man Ure could be called up for the summer euros, big clubs again ???
With you on this Jacko, most over-rated player EVER.
Huh?
over-rated...i know football is about opinions but its pretty clear to me anyway that he is not overrated but is rightly revered as a top player.
244 in 511 for Utd 261 in 588 career total and 51 in 109 for England.
so thats 312 goals in 697 games in total
2nd in the all time Premier League goalscorer
98 assists, 3rd in all time Prem list behind Giggs and Gerrard
3 titles
1 champs league
2 league cups
1 fifa world cup
yep he is overrated ::)
You don't do all of the above if you are overrated, you do all of the above if you are world class player
Its that simple
Never performed in a "world" scenario. End of !
BTW,1 FIFA world cup, who are we discussing here?
I hope you are not using the one-off money making fiasco game between Copa de Americas and Champions league winners as an argument relating to "Rooney being world class"
You want to listen to what his peers think about him only then will you realise how class the lad has been throughout his career
You are not alone in your thinking though there are plenty of others who feel the same as you but i cant agree at all, having watched him from the age of 16 burst onto the scene I've always thought of him as a world class player.
He isn't the same player as he was granted but you cannot discount his pedigree at all.
We will have to agree to disagree, i guess it could be about definitions of world class.
For me the definition is - would you pick a player in your first choice 11 for the the world?
For me WR would never have met that criteria,
The last Englishman to have made "world class" were probably Michael Owen and Paul Gascoigne, (possibly Becks & Scholes at their very best)
Gascoigne definitely, Michael Owen is nowhere near as good a footballer as Rooney and doesnt even have as many goals or trophies.
Becks and Scholes were without doubt World Class but then people think Beckham was overrated aswell.
I wouldnt pick Christiano Ronaldo in my first World XI over any period but clearly he is world class and there are countless players who are world class throughout my life who wouldnt get into my starting XI either but were undoubtedly world class so for me not picking someone in a World XI over any period is no argument for a player not getting that status.
I'm struggling with what you mean by world class then, Not trying to be an backside, I'm just missing the point I think.
I know you are not fella....What are you struggling to understand from me though.
There are many players id class as world class, it doesnt mean they have necessarily lit up a world cup but their overall contribution to football and either what they achieved domestically or what their game was like for me a supporter to watch.
Players like Hagi, Stoichkov were world class footballers, but they wouldn't get into an XI I would pick....Messi possibly wouldnt get in due to Maradona I would choose Van Basten and Fat Ronaldo as my front 2 possibly but that doesnt mean Shearer wasnt world class or Cantona for that matter...do you see what i mean??
Ok, I see where the confusion is, what i was trying to say (and failing) was a top 11 at that point in time,
ie today I would have
Neuer,
Alves, Ramos, Kompany, french bloke
Robben, Goetze DeBruyne
Ibrahimovic, Ronaldo, Messi,
Not an englishman in sight or even near frankly, getting back to Wayne, I can't imagine i would ever have picked him on this basis
So Suarez is not world class? Bale? Neymar? Lewandowski? Courtois not world class? There is no central midfielder in the world that is world class because they don't get in your top 11?
Ridiculous to use this as a definition for world class. There can be more than 11 world class players in the world.
Rooney, over his career, has been one of the best English players ever.
So Suarez is not world class? Bale? Neymar? Lewandowski? Courtois not world class? There is no central midfielder in the world that is world class because they don't get in your top 11?
Ridiculous to use this as a definition for world class. There can be more than 11 world class players in the world.
Rooney, over his career, has been one of the best English players ever.
Ok, I see where the confusion is, what i was trying to say (and failing) was a top 11 at that point in time,
ie today I would have
Neuer,
Alves, Ramos, Kompany, french bloke
Robben, Goetze DeBruyne
Ibrahimovic, Ronaldo, Messi,
Not an englishman in sight or even near frankly, getting back to Wayne, I can't imagine i would ever have picked him on this basis
You could pick another 'World Class XI' and Rooney still wouldn't be in it.
So Suarez is not world class? Bale? Neymar? Lewandowski? Courtois not world class? There is no central midfielder in the world that is world class because they don't get in your top 11?
Ridiculous to use this as a definition for world class. There can be more than 11 world class players in the world.
Rooney, over his career, has been one of the best English players ever.
Ok, if its ridiculous, how many world class players can there be at any one time ??? Surely you have to draw the line somewhere? If not 11, would you say 20, 30, 40..... 100??
To me its equally ridiculous that anything above 20 players could be deemed as world class, I chose to use 11 as I think its easy to name a side, rather than a list with no end.
I apologise for being ridiculous, but hey you know what i'll get over it ;D
Oh and on Rooney being one of the best england players ever, are you honestly saying he's been better than Shilton, Banks, Moore, Charlton, Lineker, Hurst, Greaves, Ball, Mortenson, Wright, Matthews, to name oops 11 :-*
There can be as many world class players as there are?? there is no limit to how many there is!!
And yes Rooney is up there with the best players ever, his overall ability for a start and he currently has the goalscoring record. what more does he need to be up there with the best??. When he received his award for breaking the record Bobby Charlton told you all you need to know about what everyone else thinks go him in the football world.
Ok, if its ridiculous, how many world class players can there be at any one time ??? Surely you have to draw the line somewhere? If not 11, would you say 20, 30, 40..... 100??
To me its equally ridiculous that anything above 20 players could be deemed as world class, I chose to use 11 as I think its easy to name a side, rather than a list with no end.
I apologise for being ridiculous, but hey you know what i'll get over it ;D
Oh and on Rooney being one of the best england players ever, are you honestly saying he's been better than Shilton, Banks, Moore, Charlton, Lineker, Hurst, Greaves, Ball, Mortenson, Wright, Matthews, to name oops 11 :-*
He has got his goals in an era when most intl games are qualifiers or freindlies against "lesser" nations, when he's been needed to contribute in meaningful games has he?
He is good, maybe very good, but on the world stage, ie super elite, sorry i just do not see it.
World class forwards; Messi, Ronaldo, Lewandowski, Aguero.I know he's a dickhead but I would add suarez to that list, agree about rooney though, I tend to judge what players do at major tournaments when the play against the best when calling them world class, and rooney has fallen well short in that respect.
Anyone putting Rooney in their bracket needs a rethink.
I understand when people say it's hard to compare Rooney to Messi and Ronaldo because they are the level above but for me he's never really been in the level below either. Not ever close to World or European player of the year.
The likes of Zlatan, Aguero, Suarez, neymar, bale, muller, Torres all way ahead of Rooney.
Rooney was ruined by Ferguson imo. Tried to improve his all round game but ended up taking the best thing away from him which was taking players on almost Gazza-esque.
Lineker head and shoulders over Rooney for me, these type of players come into their own on the big stage like the 86 world cup when Lineker won the Golden Boot Award with 6 goals, look how Lineker dragged England to the semis in Italia 90 with goals against Cameroon and Germany.
Big players shine in the tournaments and the biggest stage to play football is the world cup finals
Lineker 10 GOALS
Rooney 1 goal.
The new kit looks fuggin disgusting.
Absolutely awful top.
The away kit also has far too much claret and blue.
:-X.
anybody excited about the forth coming England games against Germany & Holland. what a crazy time to have internationals,
Can you imagine with 8 players away and we were seriously fighting relegation and players coming back injured
I can't wait for Germany, said in another thread that I had connecting flights in Brussels tomorrow if the airport doesn't open and the flights are cancelled I'll be booking a flight to Hamburg Friday and then 1 hr and half train from there to Berlin. Not sure whether to have a night in Hamburg and go Berlin early Saturday morning or just get the train to Berlin as soon as I Get to Hamburg
How much is the re-booking of flights Lee?
I've got the train down to Stanstead of Friday then from there to Berlin, flying back from Hannover on Monday to Birmingham. Can't wait for the weekend!
That is indeed a ballache mate, feel for you especially with the cost. Insurance covering you?
Nice one, ours were a bargain, £32 out and £34 back
Haha fairplay!
Change of plan again for me, found direct flights Liverpool - Berlin return tomorrow and coming back Sunday. Result that is!! All booked up now!
I do admire you spending your hard earned following england around, whats the attraction?
If I'm honest I'm not a huge England international fan I just love going away to different places with the lads on the p*ss.
Last year I did; Italy, Ireland, Slovenia, San Marino & Spain and every single one was fantastic.
Did Malmo with the Albion couple of years ago that was brilliant too.
Only thing is, its a bit addictive and we are already looking at the prices for Slovakia away in September for the World Cup Qualifiers
If I'm honest I'm not a huge England international fan I just love going away to different places with the lads on the p*ss.
Last year I did; Italy, Ireland, Slovenia, San Marino & Spain and every single one was fantastic.
Did Malmo with the Albion couple of years ago that was brilliant too.
Only thing is, its a bit addictive and we are already looking at the prices for Slovakia away in September for the World Cup Qualifiers
Same old England, all yap and no snap !!
Best England performance under Roy
What a load of dog pooh that squad is.
This is the best group of players we've had for ages. We now have players that are TECHNICALLY very good at long last. I only hope Roy doesn't fall into the old English trap of picking PACE when it matters. Have we finally learned? The likes of Walcott, Oxlade Chamberlain, Sterling - leave them at home, when it comes to internationally tournament football they are not sound enough technically.I don't like Cahill at all too easily beaten in the air, both in the league and internationally.
Harry Kane is one of the best strikers in the world. Vardy, Alli are so dangerous. Lallana I like at international level, that type of football suits him.
The weakest part of the team is the central defence.
Finally - Rooney - personally I wouldn't take him to the Euro's. If we do the media circus around him will disrupt our camp, we need positivity and we need to focus correctly on what matters.
Vardys goal was quality and the way Kane took two defenders out with his turn was brilliant makes Saido look a long way from this levelIf/when he joins Spurs (or other team who can provide more assistance) I'd expect him to be back up to that level quite quickly, after all, he came through the England setup with most of the younger players on view last night.
Prepared to retract on that statement mate?
Seriously good performance that was.
But we never do it when it matters. Roy will bottle it come first game and will go back to Wilshere, Rooney, Sturridge and Milner.
Was great yesterday.
I would still take Rooney no issue.
However I wouldnt take Sterling at all, he doesnt actually do anything, doesnt create much, doesnt score many if at all. Id have The Ox over him all day long.
Sterling is the MOST OVERRATED player I think I've ever seen....
Milner Captain against Holland...deep joy...
But we never do it when it matters. Roy will bottle it come first game and will go back to Wilshere, Rooney, Sturridge and Milner.
Why is James 'Granite-head' Milner captaining England tonight?
So after Saturday its back to slow slow quick quick slow
He's playing the entire squad across the two games.
Tournaments these days are about the 23 not the first 11.
It's not just about picking 11 players and sending them out to have a kick about (unless you are Tim Sherwood or Harry Redknapp).
The entire squad needs to be used to the manager's tactics and used to playing with each other.
Those that played on Saturday did well for the most part, but there's other players you deserve a crack (Drinkwater) and players who have genuine talent (Sturridge). They need to play.
The question remains, why is Milner playing?Because he´s a whole lot better than Henderson and quite probably Lallana :D :D
Because he´s a whole lot better than Henderson and quite probably Lallana :D :D
If you want England to play like they did you do need a Milner or Henderson type in there though who'll stick to their job and positioning otherwise the midfield will get completely overrun if you play Barkley who has a habit of switching off or getting caught on the ball, talented though he is. Neither of whom are bad players either, Henderson's not having a very good season but was Liverpool's best midfielder the two seasons before that. Milner has had a good season and was a key part of a side the won the league twice.Spot on. Barkley is a joy to watch from a neutral perspective but he's also bad out of possession and can easily lose the ball. Great player, but would be bad for balance if he's not at it.
Now if Wilshere was actually fit he could slot into that position no problem, but that's a very big ask at this stage.
Ref was fine. England poor without Alli. Cannot believe Hoddle just gave Drinkwater man of the match. Clearly not up to it.
Most blatant foul I have ever seen on Jagielka.
No chance he should have cleared it. Awful player at this level.
play your best inform team, the ones playing tonight have had their chance, some of them anyway. keep the ones who peformed brilliantly on sat in tonights team i say
Most blatant foul I have ever seen on Jagielka.
Were you also moaning when Germany had a goal disallowed for offside that was clearly onside?
Were you also moaning when Germany had a goal disallowed for offside that was clearly onside?
the atmosphere at wembley was as flat as the performance, its good the next 2 england home games are around the grounds
Yeah I never go to home games, normally manage to get someone who wants to go so I buy the tickets and give them away.
Been to a couple and they are shocking, especially when it's midweek games. I might go to the Turkey game though at the City of Manchester.
If anyone does need tickets to home games on here just ask ;)
Gary Neville. For me he should take over from RoyThere are a few Valencia fans that would be happy with that.
There are a few Valencia fans that would be happy with that.
up against it from the off when he went there and wasnt given a fair crack, a bit like pepe :) here.
Pepe for Valencia
When I read your user name pop up on the reply to the previous post I knew you were going to write something like that regarding Pepe.
:P :P ;).
you calling me mr predictable :)
Just booked four days up in Bratislava for England vs Slovakia in September.
Be great to see us as champions at an away game :P :o ;D
Fairplay, think we are going to wait till after the euros to book. Looking at flying to Vienna, having a day or two there then on to Slovakia.
If you get the chance to go to Slovenia in October jump all over it, fantastic place Ljubljana is very cheap beer and just an all round cracking place.
Andy Carroll hat tricks. That's his seat now reserved on the plane. ::)
What do you all think about Marcus Rashford? Would anyone here take him to the Euros? Seems a hell of a player for such a young lad.
Of course you have to take Kane, Sturridge and Vardy - but it would be a toss up between Rashford and Welbeck for me.
What do you all think about Marcus Rashford? Would anyone here take him to the Euros? Seems a hell of a player for such a young lad.
Of course you have to take Kane, Sturridge and Vardy - but it would be a toss up between Rashford and Welbeck for me.
No chance. Rashford could easily be a five minute wonder, there is no chance of him going to the Euro's. I think it's obvious who the five strikers are - Kane, Vardy, Sturridge, Rooney, Welbeck.
If England are going to play a diamond in midfield as option A like they employed against Germany second half, then the squad will be pretty close to this I reckon:
Hart
Forster
AN Other
Clyne Smalling Cahill Rose
Walker Stones Jagielka Bertrand
Dier
Drinkwater
Wilshere Henderson
Lallana Milner
Alli
Rooney
Vardy Kane
Welbeck Sturridge
Drinkwater won't go and Barkley definitely will. Aside from that you'll be pretty close. Foster will almost certainly be the number 3 keeper.
If England are going to play a diamond in midfield as option A like they employed against Germany second half, then the squad will be pretty close to this I reckon:
Hart
Forster
AN Other
Clyne Smalling Cahill Rose
Walker Stones Jagielka Bertrand
Dier
Drinkwater
Wilshere Henderson
Lallana Milner
Alli
Rooney
Vardy Kane
Welbeck Sturridge
As good as he is at times, would be a massive crime and kick in the b*lls to Drinkwater etc if Wilshere was to go to the Euros.
The lad at best will only get 4 games between now and the end of the season, taking a place of someone who like Drinkwater/Barkley etc have peformed well all season for their respective teams.
As good as he is at times, would be a massive crime and kick in the b*lls to Drinkwater etc if Wilshere was to go to the Euros.He's also a total cock and overrated. No way should he go ahead of those two.
The lad at best will only get 4 games between now and the end of the season, taking a place of someone who like Drinkwater/Barkley etc have peformed well all season for their respective teams.
If you're going to take another holding bloke surely it has to be Noble?
Atomic's squad was virtually spot on imo.
Hart
Forster
Foster
Clyne Smalling Cahill RoseWalkerStones Jagielka Bertrand
Dier
DrinkwaterWilshere
Barkley Henderson (injured perhaps)
LallanaMilner
Alli
Walcott Rooney Sterling
Vardy Kane
Welbeck Sturridge
anyone fancy the semis?
I honestly do fancy us to get to the semis this year, hopefully anyway as I have tickets for that and the final.
Sure we will get let down again though :-[
The team starting today is what I would start with in the Russia game
P49 W29 D13 L7 win %59.1
Roy may not be the medias love child, but his record is excellent, 14% loss rate is superb
P49 W29 D13 L7 win %59.1
Roy may not be the medias love child, but his record is excellent, 14% loss rate is superb
Lucky, our first offside and they should also have had a penalty, vardy didn't dive. Turkey look dangerous, our center halves look nervous
Vardy didn't dive as such, but as he has done a few times this season, he moved his leg across in front of the defenders legs, so the defender couldn't help but make contact
Unfortunately for him he will be judged on what England won tournament wise! Its all right beating the poorer teams in qualifiers and friendlies, when it comes down to the nitty gritty England have failed.
Only 1 country can win a tournament every 2 years though. I think its a bit harsh to say we have failed being as based on our squad compared to the squads of other countries, our performance and results in recent tournaments have been pretty standard.
I don't think he means trophy wins. But tournament performance (how far you get)
The Brazil World Cup was the worst in our history.
Hodgson without doubt should have gone after Brazil after the worst tournemont finals in our history.I suspect he will be looking for work in August
did i hear correct, a booze ban for the England v Wales game at the Euros
Where have you seen or heard this? Looks like I'll have to stock the campervan up big time if that's the case!!
Where have you seen or heard this? Looks like I'll have to stock the campervan up big time if that's the case!!
i was going to go, drink makes for a better atmosphere.i will go down the local now.
Does this mean any fanzones over there are drink free?
is this drinking issue all over france for everyone else
Will Roy take him ?
is this drinking issue all over france for everyone else
Strange leaving out Townsend. No real pace and width , Townsend provides something different.
I would have left Lallana , doesn't do much.
As usual the names get in the squad over the form players - Jack Wheelchair and Henderson over Drinkwater is an absolute joke.
Is it? I think both are far better players than Drinkwater.
Is it? I think both are far better players than Drinkwater.
Right move to leave Drinkwater out.Not half fit they aren't.
Wilshere and Henderson are not only better they also played key roles in a team that won every game in qualifying.
One of them played a key role in a team that won the league, the other two spent most of the season injured.
I know who I would take.
Two of them played key roles in a team that won 10 consecutive games in qualifying. The other has played 2/3 games at international level.
Drinkwater has had a good season and deserves to be blooded into the side throughout the next qualifying campaign to see if he can cut it. A major tournament playing in the middle of midfield against some of the most experienced names in European football is not the time or place to find out he isn't good enough; if it goes wrong he may never recover and we could potentially lose an England international for future years. Just look what happened to Ryan Shawcross, and that was in a friendly albeit against Ibrahimovic.
When was qualifying again? Mostly the season before last wasn't it?
If form counts for nothing we may as well call up Lampard, Gerrard and Ashley Cole while we're at it, they used to be decent.
Hodgson has played a system throughout the qualifying campaign that he wants to take into the Euros. Wilshere featured and excelled in that system, to a lesser extent so did Henderson. It's a no brainer for the sake of 4/5 games in a major tournament you want players who have been there and done it to some degree before.
Drinkwater will be introduced during the WC Qualifiers, then we'll see if he's good enough/if he fits the way Hodgson wants to play.
hopefully hes gone by then
I'm more than happy for him to stay if I am honest, fancy us for the semis this time.
One of them played a key role in a team that won the league, the other two spent most of the season injured.
I know who I would take.
Not really a key role is it. Vardy, Mahrez, and Kante were their key players then their back 4. He had a very specific and very limited job in that Leicester team that doesn't exist in this England team People who think all of Leicester's squad are suddenly world class are presumably the same type who were complaining when someone like Cleverley would get picked just for playing for Man U, even if they won the league. Both were wrong.
Wilshere's so much better, so much more talented than Drinkwater its not even funny. If Arsenal had the chance to swap Wilshere for Drinkwater do you actually think they would? Of course not. If he's not injured currently it makes absolutely no sense to not pick him. A lot of people let personal dislike of Wilshere cloud their judgement. Talent wise he's nearly unrivaled in that squad. The team doesn't lack for triers in midfield, it does lack for genuine quality on the ball in midfield that Wilshere offers.
Hodgson has done a great job and in my eyes he's the best England manager since Glenn Hoddle. I fancy us to go all the way, I can't see many teams who have the talented players we have.
No they wouldn't, but the fact that they don't sign players that do the dirty work is why they haven't won the league for over a decade. You don't win the league with a team of Wilshere's.
Sometimes it's about the team rather than packing the team full of talented individuals and hoping for the best.
Thats the bare minimum, anything else is failure. hes lucky he didn't get the boot after the shocking showing in Brazil
hopefully hes gone by then
Bizarre, I hope he is manager for the next 20years because that means England would have had to be successful. wishing him gone means he's failed, means england fail...
the biggest failure in our history of world cup finals in 2014, hes lucky to still be england manager any other nation would have sacked on such a dismal showing
the biggest failure in our history of world cup finals in 2014, hes lucky to still be england manager any other nation would have sacked on such a dismal showing
You have to admit we have goals in the team for what seems like an age, the pressure is off Rooney to deliver all the goals. If we go far could potentially see an Englishmen as golden boot for tourney.
Any new football tunes for this competition
lets not get carried away,
Any new football tunes for this competition
anyone going tonightWhere?
Where?
Where?
Where?
anyone going tonight
the home of football
Home of football, you mean The Hawthorns?
The home of entertainment. ;)
there's got to be a better player than milner , not sure what his role is supposed to be.
I do think fat Wayne should start, but he should be playing in the deep-lying midfield role like he did in the FA Cup semi final against Everton, thought he played brilliantly there. Aggressive box-to-box play.
I agree in that he disrupted the front 3, but to be honest Vardy was pretty much invisible in the system we played last night. Welbeck will be greatly missed.
We had years of trying to accommodate Gerrard and Lampard - it never really worked and it seems we are doing a similar thing with Rooney. Why do managers never bloody learn? We are diluting our own strengths.
It's perfectly simple to me, Kane and Vardy are both full of goals, you play them and you play the very talented and dangerous other goal threat Dele Alli behind them. From an attacking view point that trio is as strong as any team has in the tournament. Why the hell would you not go with that?
If Rooney doesn't fit into the side "naturally" then don't play him.
Jamie Vardy will be playing left wing next. :-[
You need Rooney on the pitch. He has vast experience in International tournaments and we have a lot of players playing their first tournament. I would play him as a box to box midfielder.
Vast experience of massive failures every single time. So are you saying we should drop one of two strikers that have 49 goals split between them this season? Or that Delle Alli should be wasted being played out of position or dropped? Or Rooney should be on the wing or defence midfield?
It's quite simple for me, Rooney's time is up and there are better options for this starting 11.
Vast experience of massive failures every single time. So are you saying we should drop one of two strikers that have 49 goals split between them this season? Or that Delle Alli should be wasted being played out of position or dropped? Or Rooney should be on the wing or defence midfield?
It's quite simple for me, Rooney's time is up and there are better options for this starting 11.
I've had £20 on England to win & Kane top scorer at 50/1
Any new football tunes for this competition
just heard a catchy tune, the public house chorus- a nation of tribes. couple in video wearing Albion tops
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUQ6WBaZXCo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUQ6WBaZXCo)
So the build up is nearly complete, let's see some line-up's for Saturday. Roy's XI then your own personal choice, I'll start.
Roy's XI 4-3-3
Hart
Walker
Cahill
Smalling
Rose
Wilshere
Dier
Henderson
Alli
Kane
Rooney
My XI 4-4-2
Hart
Clyne
Stones
Smalling
Bertrand
Sterling
Dier
Alli
Milner
Sturridge
Kane
Glad roys in charge not you :-)
I would go with your Roy team but with Vardy instead of Rooney
Roy's = Rooney + 10 others
Mine...
Seaman
Pearce
Adams
Walker
Neville
Barnes
Beckham
Gascogne
Waddle
Shearer/lineker
We would be OK? :D
TV Coverage for the euros BBC or ITV?. i dont like lineker so its ITV for me. ITV have improved, maybe because Adrians gone
Roys XI
Hart
Walker Cahill Smalling Rose
Dier Henderson
Sterling Alli Rooney
Kane
Mine
Hart
Clyne Cahill Stones Rose
Dier
Henderson Wilshere
Alli
Rooney Kane
TV Coverage for the euros BBC or ITV?. i dont like lineker so its ITV for me. ITV have improved, maybe because Adrians gone
BBC. No Pulis to spoil my mood.pulis is just Wales I think.
Tickled me:An oldie but goodie Jacko! :D
The England team visited an orphanage in France yesterday.
"It's heartbreaking to see their little faces with no hope" said Philippe, aged 6.
Chairs flying everywhere! Same old, same old. It only ever seems to happen on mainland Europe. Fans were good as gold in South Korea, Brazil and South Africa. Perhaps the flight prices put the louts off.
https://youtu.be/Bfj0J7mBgZI (https://youtu.be/Bfj0J7mBgZI)
Chairs flying everywhere! Same old, same old. It only ever seems to happen on mainland Europe. Fans were good as gold in South Korea, Brazil and South Africa. Perhaps the flight prices put the louts off.
https://youtu.be/Bfj0J7mBgZI (https://youtu.be/Bfj0J7mBgZI)
Beered up cockney geezers. ::)
Let's stick England and Russia in a hugely Muslim populated city. That'll go well. ::)
Let's stick England and Russia in a hugely Muslim populated city. That'll go well. ::)
They'd have done it anyway regardless of the situation as long as beer was available, they are morons. I doubt they will be doing that sort of behaviour against the Russian fans anyway who would eat them alive.
rumoured Lallana and Stirling will start
They'd have done it anyway regardless of the situation as long as beer was available, they are morons. I doubt they will be doing that sort of behaviour against the Russian fans anyway who would eat them alive.
Talk about a provocative attitude. Red rag to a bull. Bloody glad the idiots ain't reading that. :o
Anyone else find it hard to get too excited or 'behind the lads', the England team I mean? I just don't see any characters out there or really believe that they're really up for 'doing it for England' with a real passion. Maybe it's the general feeling I have towards footballers in general these days, that they're a bit detached from the real world etc? Maybe it's that we just don't have any really, really good players? Maybe it's just because I was a lot younger when I used to get excited about these tournaments?
I will watch all of our games with interest and hope that when the games are actually being played, I will become more excited about things, but I don't really see that happening at the current time. Anyone else feel a bit like this, or understand what I'm babbling on about?
Anyone else find it hard to get too excited or 'behind the lads', the England team I mean? I just don't see any characters out there or really believe that they're really up for 'doing it for England' with a real passion. Maybe it's the general feeling I have towards footballers in general these days, that they're a bit detached from the real world etc? Maybe it's that we just don't have any really, really good players? Maybe it's just because I was a lot younger when I used to get excited about these tournaments?
I will watch all of our games with interest and hope that when the games are actually being played, I will become more excited about things, but I don't really see that happening at the current time. Anyone else feel a bit like this, or understand what I'm babbling on about?
i must admit i am not feeling the excitement i use too prior to a tournement, at the minute i am more looking forward to the thought of going to the pub as the main course.
not seen one England car flag yet, most unusual.Lots out there feeling the same as you i assume
Well that was dreadful :o
Chairs flying everywhere! Same old, same old. It only ever seems to happen on mainland Europe. Fans were good as gold in South Korea, Brazil and South Africa. Perhaps the flight prices put the louts off.
https://youtu.be/Bfj0J7mBgZI (https://youtu.be/Bfj0J7mBgZI)
Thats what I thought.... :o
Anyone else find it hard to get too excited or 'behind the lads', the England team I mean? I just don't see any characters out there or really believe that they're really up for 'doing it for England' with a real passion. Maybe it's the general feeling I have towards footballers in general these days, that they're a bit detached from the real world etc? Maybe it's that we just don't have any really, really good players? Maybe it's just because I was a lot younger when I used to get excited about these tournaments?
I will watch all of our games with interest and hope that when the games are actually being played, I will become more excited about things, but I don't really see that happening at the current time. Anyone else feel a bit like this, or understand what I'm babbling on about?
apart from not scoring that was an excellent first half performance from England.
More than happy with the first half, there is plenty in that squad yet, sometimes we can't wait to knock.
We will be fine
The thing that is most noticeable is how unintelligent the English are in the footballing world. It's always bad luck, or whatever. No it isn't, that's a term you use when you don't know what was wrong because you are blinkered in your way of thinking.
Lee Dixon "It was perfect except the result".
I'm sorry but he hasn't a clue. Lets take France or Germany or Spain, would they have beaten Russia tonight? Of course they would all of them and comfortably.
Roy said there were loads of positives. ::)
I'm inebriated off already. One game in and I know we're pretty much fkd. The most annoying thing is if we were a bit more intelligent we have so much more to give.
Going to bed. Fed up!
You wouldn't like a wager that we will qualify would you?
Big deal.
Slovakia, Wales and Russia. If we don't we might as well pack the game in.
bewildered that kane played 90 mins, he was useless and vardys pace would have caused Russia all sorts of problems.
james millner ffs.
hodgson created more problems than Russia.
Oh, so you think we are good enough to qualify - ok - how do you think Wales played?
what's your point? Wales played well for their level of abilty. What you trying to get at?
So you think Wales played well and England rubbish against a poor Russian side side correct?
Read properly.
Wales are limited compared to England. They played as well as can be expected and they managed their game well.
England picked the wrong team, the wrong shape and lacked a cutting edge against the worst team so far and failed to score from open play.
Is that clear enough?
What really pisses me of is the fact that no-one seems to understand the bleeding obvious and we have to listen to Roy and the pundits talking absolute, complete and utter garbage.
Well how about I think you are talking 'garbage' and I am prepared to wager you that a rubbish England will beat a rejuvenated Wales?
Where have I said they won't?
IF we pick the right team / the right shape we can go a long way and we have a far better quality of player than Wales have - we should beat them.
You can think I talk garbage all you want that's your problem not mine.
Kane should be in the box for corners not taking them
Well - Hodgson will still be manager and if he is as rubbish as you say he is he will still pick the wrong team, correct?
Probably. Lets hope not.
So - even with a rubbish manager a diabolical team England will still beat the Welsh?
What's the matter with you?
I hope we'll beat them yes.
Don't understand the clamour for Vardy, the team is crying out for Sterling to be dropped along with Lallana, and Sturridge and Rooney in their positions, Alli in behind with a shield of Dier and Henderson.
Badly lacked end product.
Same old Roy.
Vardy and Sturbridge out wide all day long for me. Said it pre-game and stand by it. Overlapping full backs work brilliantly with wide men cutting in. Not just that but they bring genuine goal threats too. Rooney's performance overshadowed Alli's in my opinion who was good in flashes but played within himself.
Totally agree
Do not see what Sterling offers, it feels like I'm an witch hunt for Sterling as I cant say it enough, the guy is useless, how many times did he have the ball and run into either a. the defender and lose the ball, b. down a blind alley and lose the ball or c. stop a counter attack and pass backwards.
He didnt have the beating of his man once in the game and I've yet to see him beat his man in any game I've watched him play, the guy is truly awful
Id drop Sterling and Lallana they just don't do anything for me
Thought Dier and Walker were excellent and Rooney had a good game too
I thought Lallana did OK. Looked bright.
I agree with Sterling though,I thought he was poor. I would have took him off a lot earlier. I would have maybe tried Vardy out there, his pace running forward on the counter would have scared the living daylights out of their right back.
On another note I thought Rose and Walker, Walker in particular were very good.
I've taken a night to let it sink in as at the final whistle, everybody is just gutted!
However, how can anybody criticise the way we played last night? We had many chances and should have had the game sewn up well before Russia's lump in the box and freak header went in. I'm not a big fan of him but Lallana played really well and allowed Kyle Walker to take the space on the right hand side and act pretty much as a winger. There was NOTHING negative about the team choice or style of play.
The only thing I would not have done is take Rooney off. However, bringing Milner on for Sterling with 5 minutes to go? At 1-0, every single manager in the Premier League would have done exactly the same. Who goes gung-ho for the second with 5 minutes left? We slated Berahino for going for the pass instead of the corner a few years ago against Cardiff, which cost us.
It was just one of those things - maybe Smalling could have covered Berezutski instead of Rose? Maybe Hart could have been positioned better? Maybe Vardy could have come on, when Kane's legs were tiring. It's all ifs and buts and Hodgson's team selection but bang on.
It's always one of those things isn't it?
England played against an awful Russia side and a depleted Russia side at that. Yes we controlled the game for large part and created chances but our finishing was extremely poor. There were plenty of things lacking from the performance. We lacked a cutting edge, we had our centre forward taking corner kicks - why? Can't Rooney take them, Kane is our number nine, get him in the box.
Given that Russia were so poor and they posed very little threat we had licence to bomb our full backs on at will without having to be concerned with what was coming back and though they got forward well enough we never really overloaded on their full backs enough.
We should've won the game easily but we were so impotent.
The pundits are going on about how well we played but just for a second imagine Diers free kick had gone over the bar and we lost 1-0, people would be changing their tune then and pointing out what I'm trying to point out now. We played cosmetic football. Yes it looked good to the eye but it wasn't clinical and it wasn't effective and that is largely down to us handing over our real strengths which is Kane - Vardy and Ali in behind - that trio is vibrant, it's lively and it does damage.
It's always one of those things isn't it?
England played against an awful Russia side and a depleted Russia side at that. Yes we controlled the game for large part and created chances but our finishing was extremely poor. There were plenty of things lacking from the performance. We lacked a cutting edge, we had our centre forward taking corner kicks - why? Can't Rooney take them, Kane is our number nine, get him in the box.
Given that Russia were so poor and they posed very little threat we had licence to bomb our full backs on at will without having to be concerned with what was coming back and though they got forward well enough we never really overloaded on their full backs enough.
We should've won the game easily but we were so impotent.
The pundits are going on about how well we played but just for a second imagine Diers free kick had gone over the bar and we lost 1-0, people would be changing their tune then and pointing out what I'm trying to point out now. We played cosmetic football. Yes it looked good to the eye but it wasn't clinical and it wasn't effective and that is largely down to us handing over our real strengths which is Kane - Vardy and Ali in behind - that trio is vibrant, it's lively and it does damage.
I'm probably in the minority
Let's remember we won the first half on points, should have been 2-0 at least.
ALL of the players done well, you can say "no end product for sterling" but every time he got the ball he took us 30-40yds up the pitch, my only change would be Wiltshire for lallana, whilst he tried hard, 2 wayward efforts and offside 4 times means wilshere would offer more.
Many saying he should have brought vardy in, well if at 1-0 he brings vardy on, we push up leave a gap and they score, Roy gets crucified, most of you if honest would have brought defensive Milner on with ten minutes to defend?
I've been let down and made angry many times by my country team, this time I'm fine , they gave all and deserved the win , you can throw this post at me if we go out but I honestly think we can do this..
I agree Sterling is a little hard done by, he played well first half and didn't get much support in the second when he counter attacked.Kane was nearly always shadowed by two, he played a big part in both of the goals disallowed and won the free kick which led to the goal, I think he had impact?
Vardy however 100% should have came on for Kane who was woeful and doing nothing. It allowed Russia to play without pressure, Vardy on the pitch and their ageing centre backs have to sit very deep, Kane on the pitch not doing anything they were allowed to play on the front foot and England lost most their counter attacking threat.
Desperately disappointed in Kane last night, shouldn't be starting on thursday with the likes of Vardy and Sturridge on the bench.
So Gareth Luggers Bale calls us arrogant, hes probably right :). Team talk done then
we are arrogant, i fully expect us to win this game
A lot of it was Hodgson (who I very much like) I think really - it'll be a crime if he's still in charge come August.
This is a team with a potentially very good attack but weak elsewhere, Hodgson is not the man to be coaching a team like that and it showed yesterday. England should have had that game killed off long before injury time but negativity cost us as it has done repeatedly. You might concede staying just as attacking, but i've never been convinced you concede anymore than sitting back and trying to absorb pressure (particularly with a weak defence).
England took 5 strikers to the tournament yet Kane stayed on as a lone forward the entire game despite being comfortably the worst player in the team. That is why England will not get anywhere under Hodgson.
I have a bad feeling we'll lose to Wales, and then need something from Slovakia (which I think we'd get tbh) to get through. I think they'll fancy it more than we will.
God help Roy if we do
You will all be pleased to know I have laid England on Betfair to win the tournament.
You can now reasonably expect Rooney to lift the trophy. 8)
Wish it was still Robson or Beckham with the armband
If we lose to Wales he is toast
If we lose to Wales he is toast
We are getting a lot of unfair critism in my opinion. Besides a couple of subs that didnt happen/early enough. We played very well apart from the end product. A lot of our shots were right down the keepers throat. A couple of feet either side and we could have been 2-3 up at half time.
If my auntie had nuts, she'd be my uncle!
We are going to unload on the Welsh. It will all be fine. We'll have 4 points and be top of the group on Thursday night.
I would only make one change, swap Sterling for maybe Milner and see where we are after 60 mins. Vardy deserves to get some game time as well.
http://www.joe.co.uk/sport/the-single-most-sickening-act-by-an-england-fan-as-he-punches-an-innocent-old-man/66203
Won't be long before this hits mainstream news
http://www.joe.co.uk/sport/the-single-most-sickening-act-by-an-england-fan-as-he-punches-an-innocent-old-man/66203
Won't be long before this hits mainstream news
Where is the evidence that he is an England fan? He's not wearing colours?
Saw that vid on Saturday. I instantly thought he was Russian to be honest, from the grainy picture he even looks like the Russian manager. Think their intention was to run around and punch as many English or ethnic minority people as they could.But we will get the blame as usual.
Not a chance he was English for me.
Where is the evidence that he is an England fan? He's not wearing colours?
The actual article that's written never mentions and England or Russian fan.
http://www.joe.co.uk/sport/the-single-most-sickening-act-by-an-england-fan-as-he-punches-an-innocent-old-man/66203
"The single most sickening act BY AN ENGLAND FAN...."
http://www.joe.co.uk/sport/the-single-most-sickening-act-by-an-england-fan-as-he-punches-an-innocent-old-man/66203
Won't be long before this hits mainstream news
http://www.joe.co.uk/sport/the-single-most-sickening-act-by-an-england-fan-as-he-punches-an-innocent-old-man/66203
"The single most sickening act BY AN ENGLAND FAN...."
Read the article mate ::)
None of our lot would get in the Wales team, make sure you make them eat those words England
None of our lot would get in the Wales team, make sure you make them eat those words England
Will Russia get kicked out of the trouble is outside the stadium or does it apply only to trouble inside ?
Only if there is trouble in the stadium apparently.they won't strip them of the World Cup because they can't, that's FIFA's choice not UEFA's.
UEFA has no balls, they should have said any more violence full stop from your supporters whether in the stadium or not will lead to expulsion from the competition and you being stripped of the World Cup in 2018...if they did that it would kill the problem or at least give us a resolution to the issue
I hope they kick them out personally and strip them of the World Cup, no one will want to travel there knowing their hooligan element is horrendous
they won't strip them of the World Cup because they can't, that's FIFA's choice not UEFA's.They won't strip of them of the World Cup because they can't, that's because money ,hands, exchanged,fear,oligarchs etc etc
they won't strip them of the World Cup because they can't, that's FIFA's choice not UEFA's.
Just been given some Slovakia vs England tickets for £20 each but in Slovakia end. Getting to St Etienne is the main issue it seems. Euro star to Lyon and then train across.
Read the link mate ::)There is a clip of that attack online from a Russian ultra group
I am fully aware that the article no longer specifies English as it has been changed, however the link to the article is extremely misleading and also slanderous.
Let's not let that get in the way of a good England fan bashing though.
This is absolutely true though. None of the current England squad would get in the Welsh team.....unless they are Welsh or have a Welsh parent or Grand parent!
If the Welsh use the same standards as the Irish did/do then you could play for Wales if they've ever had a pint of Brains SA, seen or eaten a leek, picked a daffodil, eaten laverbread or cheese on toast/rarebit etc etc etc.
It's pathetic, we're guests in another country, the behaviour is akin to shitting on the table at a dinner party (oo er) you've been invited to...
Least our football team isn't as bad as your rugby team in that sense ;)
wash your mouth out :D my dad is Scottish my mum half Welsh half Irish. I was born in Worcester but I consider myself British not English.
Will Wales boo or join in with the British national anthem today?
Will Wales boo or join in with the British national anthem today?
Hartley, Vunipola brothers, Teimana Harrison, Ben Te'o, Yard ...
When the shoe fits ;)
unchanged team :-X
3-1 England
stirling is so overratedHe is pooh loses every challenge roll on second half and bring Vardy on.
no great viewing is it
Crying out for Daniel Sturridge. No threat at all from England.
Poor from Hart on the goal.
It's crying out for Jamie Vardy. I am sick of saying the same things.
Hodgson's time is running out he really needs to deliver now.
Joe Hart shocking for the goal. Sterling shocking end of. Had Vardy been playing instead of him we'd probably have been one up early on.
Vardy won't work. Wales are sitting too deep. Need a goal threat already got plenty of pace out there.
Wales played for a draw didnt get it!
we were nearly pulised
Kane shouldn't play again in this tournament.
Alli flattered to deceive as well while Dier is also a concern in possession.
Sturridge and Vardy should start going forward and I'd be looking for Wilshere and Henderson to push the aforementioned midfielders.
He's had very little help with useless Sterling to play with. Put Vardy up front with him and you'll see a different player. Sturridge is too wasteful, spends most of his time blasting shots over the bar.
Goal and an assist in 45 minutes. Sturridge has almost single handedly won us the game mate.
Crazy.
should Drinkwater and Townsend have gone?
Townsend for Rashford. Drinkwater no, not IMO.
i would have said more Townsend for stirling
why do we start with two wide men when we have such attacking full backs i would start with Kane and Vardy and possibly Rashford who can beat a player and score a goal.
People say Roy was lucky today..but who really cares...as long as we get results he can pull the names out of a hat for me...so much negativity around its draining..btw Walker MOTM. .I want a gallon of whatever he has been drinking...immense performance..
what team starts against Slovakia?
what team starts against Slovakia?
Hart
Walker
Cahill
Smalling
Rose
Dier
Rooney
Wilshere
Lallana
Vardy
Sturridge
Alli looks leggy. Kane not good enough. Sterling has been out of form for over a year.
if we go on to win the group who is our most likely knockout round opponent and where
if we go on to win the group who is our most likely knockout round opponent and where
Ali and Kane look leggy. Sterling needs dropping for Wiltshire.. I'd gie the spuds another go.
You'll have all the Northern Irish fully behind you guys tonight.
After Albania winning last night, if Russia fail to win against Wales, and England beat Slovakia. Then Northern Ireland can squeak through in a best third place spot if we lose to Germany by the same scoreline or less than Slovakia get beat today.
It's all a tad complicated and confusing but please do us a favor, England!
(England v. Northern Ireland is actually possible for the last 16. That would be fun.)
Are we through safely yet??
No...so why are we weakening the side, the changes that needed to be made are Vardy and Sturridge in for Kane and Sterling
it could seriously backfire
Henderson for Rooney the only one I'd have reservations about, Clyne and Bertrand could have easily been 1st choice, and Alli has looked well off the pace.
What is Jack Wheelchair doing on the pitch! Game is just going on around him. He is not fit enough for this tournament.Sturridge is cr@p too
Dreadful tonight, no cutting edge whatsoever, our best striker being alienated out on the right wing, Hodgson has got previous for this *cough* Odemwingie *cough*.
There's clearly not much in the way of a Plan B when teams pack ten men in the box against us; we're always just looking for that slight gap or bit of luck to go our way because we haven't got that extra bit of quality needed to open them up. However, since that's the case, it might actually work in our favour to have finished runners-up and face a slightly better team in the next round than we otherwise would have done. Let's hope we get a team we can go toe to toe with and use the likes of Vardy to best effect.
Congratulations to Wales for topping the group, and most of all, for eliminating Russia and their thugs. Job well done.
frustrating doesn't come close to how I feel watching that, get the impression too many players play as individuals instead of a team. sturridge and ali the main culprits.
We are moving on to knockout tournament where teams are not going to be able to just sit back. We will have to take our chances but i'd expect there to be more of them and of a better quality.
But we still won't win :-X
A lot of huff and puff tonight with no cutting edge.
The amount of space on the wings was wasted.
The England team kept being sucked into the middle, especially at corners. The amount of time the ball went over to the opposite wing was criminal. No player was stationed out there to return the ball or stretch their defence wider.
Sturridge is NOT our best striker. He's a flicker and is wasteful.
He clearly is our best striker, though Rashford may come good, the other 2 are flat track bullies, one relies on pub football to get in behind the other will be as out of his depth in the CL next season as he is in this tournament.
I've enjoyed watching us at this tournament so far because we've seen some good build up play. Something I've been starved of watching Albion! I think Roy has made great progress with this squad overall since the 2014 debacle. We look a potentially dangerous team who need a final step to become clinical in a way the best teams are.
Unfortunately, I don't think we can make that extra step with Roy as he's still faffing around trying to find his best team and system which is not good enough at this stage. Maybe he should be in charge of the U21s/ development teams and we get a first team manager who is more decisive?
I'd love to be proven wrong but unless Roy quickly fixes on his best team/ system and leaves them to it, we won't get through much further.
For me Quarter finals are acceptable, anything less is failure and anything more a bonus. Afterall, this is about results not performances...............Come on England
One more thing - Eric Dier - absolutely magnificent. He's some player.
As much as I could be wrong. We missed Sterling.. *cry
Sturridge is NOT our best striker. He's a flicker and is wasteful.
That one comment renders your entire argument invalid.
Agreed Dier is a wonderful footballer. Passing range and the way he patrols the middle is excellent news for England. We have found a star again
That performance last night was nigh on exactly the same as watching the Albion, the only difference was some slow passing between the centre halves and three midfielders. When we got in in the attacking areas we created little, our crossing was poor and our strikers looked painfully isolated - Vardy probably touched the ball three times in the second half.
I'm not having a go at Hodgson, I love Roy. I can't get my head round people thinking what England did last night was good and what Pulis does being the exact opposite. It was just as boring, lacking in exactly the same areas and the end result was the same. Baffling.
Enjoyment is relative and subjective so I can't say why but I've seen England keep the ball better in the first three matches than at any point in the past 20 years. We have genuinely good attacking players with trickery and I've enjoyed the fact we've spent most of the three games on the front foot - unlike Albion who play more like Slovakia did last night.
The game last night petered out because we ran out of ideas, energy and basically Slovakia did an Albion - 10 men behind the ball and defended very deep. The only real way around this is width, stretching them. Therefore, why did Roy keep bringing on central attacking players - Kane, Alli, Rooney (although I could understand Rooney cause he should've started in the first place).
Roy has made some strange decisions lately - which usually means he's run out of ideas.
He needs to get back to basics and build a first 11 with three or four subs who he can rely on for the remainder of the tournament. If we come up against Hungary, Iceland or Austria can you see them not defending for 90mins and try to snatch one just as Russia, Wales and Slovakia did? The same problems need different answers/ responses or you get the same results.............
Well its not been the best group stage, struggled badly to break down more defensive sides yet goals conceded against Russia and Wales were very poor. At least we are through and may actually create some better clear cut chances in the knockout stage where sides can't really afford to sit back so much.
We'll get Portugal and Ronaldo will rip us to shreds.
All they have to do is get us to a penalty shoot out.
Game over :-[
Enjoyment is relative and subjective so I can't say why but I've seen England keep the ball better in the first three matches than at any point in the past 20 years. We have genuinely good attacking players with trickery and I've enjoyed the fact we've spent most of the three games on the front foot - unlike Albion who play more like Slovakia did last night.
Do you think many teams will intentionally do that knowing penalties is a massive gamble even given our record?
No it doesnt fella, I might not agree with Kane and Vardy being just flat track bullies but you cant help but agree that Kane looks out of his depth at the min and Vardy is not being used correctly. I think Sturridge is our best striker and Rashford has more to his game than both Vardy and Kane have
Sturridge is cr@p too
Did I hear or read somewhere we won't get the national anthem played tomorrow night?
Quite funny that english supporters are happy meeting us! After the celebration we realized that we would meet England we celebrated even more!!
We pray before every group draw that we get England(no one watches La liga or any other dumb league, here we just watch the premier league) but now finally we meet England not in a friendly where we are asked not to go tough on them!! Dreams of 330.000 thousand people finnaly came true!
Just to inform you my fellow baggies, in our national team we have so many world class penalty takers! Iceland through on penalties!
ÃFRAM ÃSLAND
Did I hear or read somewhere we won't get the national anthem played tomorrow night?
Did I hear or read somewhere we won't get the national anthem played tomorrow night?Behave, the anthem is the anthem, the trade agreement,well that's a slightly different matter, apparently there has been some sort of vote recently?
I literally haven't seen anything about this supposed non-playing of the anthem. Anyone got a link?
Striling rumoured to be starting :(
just my opinion but I think:-
a) Kane - was poor for Spurs in the last 4 or 5 games of the season - seems he has burnt himself out!
b) Sturridge - can be brilliant but too often greedy & injury prone
c) Sterling - has hardly played in the 2nd half of the season for City
d) Vardy - Englands tippy tappy Arsenal style doesnt fit his game - as an aside I'd be surprised if he signs for Arsenal - had one chance last night & probably only touched the ball 3 times!
e) Deli Alli - see Kane
f) Rashford - very raw but perhaps would show no fear!
g) Rooney - not my favourite but seems wasted in deep midfield
h) Wiltshere - see Sterling but he's only played 120 mins for Arsenal since being out injured
i) best players for me so far - Walker, Rose, Clyne
In the game against Russia Roy played 11 players who had never played together before!! what are the friendlies/qualifiers for?
I don't think we've actually played too badly - until the final 3rd! don't fancy our chances if we have to play anybody any good!
All have been good yes but the best player so far for us has been Eric Dier
Agreed. He is some player.
I would 100% start Sterling. He fits the 4-3-3 which is by far our best system. He just needs to get a bit of confidence back - would love him to score tonight.
Yeah no problem re-uniting two thirds of the SSS. Lallana for all his pretty play is woeful in front of goal.
What is Hart doing.Simply to slow ???Hart's a liability, heart goes in my mouth every time the ball goes near our goal
Seen enough of this sick of tippy tappy football with no end product.
We're not playing tippy tippy. We're playing unimaginative long ball. Exactly what they want. I've got to believe it's the players because if this was a qualifier at Wembley we'd be p1ssing it.When they get in and around the box they try to walk the ball in the net no chance against a packed defence.
Don't agree with a few of Roys choices but these players have a lot to answer for , qualify with ease but bottle the big stage again.
This is actually embarrassingI actually thought it was that poor it was hilarious - Goodbye Roy!
The blames lies fully with the player's. They couldn't do the basics, control, passing etc. Poor defending, no creativity in attack. Apart from the penalty we did not look like scoring. Hodgson will get the blame and the sack but you can't legislate for such poor quality
Roy's gone
If we had any sense the man commentating is the only man to sort this out, Hoddle for me, wasted out of coaching.I think he's been shown as a very average manager though (certainly no better than Hodgson in club football). He is the last generations Gary Neville; a great pundit with more insight than most, but equally flawed when entering the real world of management.
Out of the euros and out of the eu, what a great time to be alive.
The blame should be shared.
Hodgson: reliant on a Spurs spine that came 3rd in a 2 horse race.
Best striker - right wing, record goal scorer - deep lying central midfielder.
Jack Wilshere, Raheem Sterling, Jordan Henderson, Gary Cahill, Joe Hart, players picked on reputation not form.
The players: played every game at walking pace, not remotely incisive, no quick one touch passing, revert to long balls against deep defenders, no heart, lack of concentration.
We struggle at international level for the simple reason we don't have enough world class players.We have as many and more in most cases than Wales, Iceland and Poland. We lack the desire and tactical nous. Hodgson was a disaster who seemed to be making it up as he went along. It will be more of the same if the FA appoint Southgate or Neville.
The Premier League is the best in the world but its full of foreign talent at the expense of home grown up and coming players.
Limit the amount of foreign players in a starting 11 and give the clubs a chance to develop young English players
We have as many and more in most cases than Wales, Iceland and Poland. We lack the desire and tactical nous. Hodgson was a disaster who seemed to be making it up as he went along. It will be more of the same if the FA appoint Southgate or Neville.Yep, they're not world class but they are high-premier league quality, who lost to a team including part-timers. That is down to the manager, as you say the next in line to manage is frightening.
We have as many and more in most cases than Wales, Iceland and Poland. We lack the desire and tactical nous. Hodgson was a disaster who seemed to be making it up as he went along. It will be more of the same if the FA appoint Southgate or Neville.I think it will be the same whoever they employ, for the simple reason that the players will never be anywhere near as good as they think they are.
The morning after the night before...........
Two things
1) lack of leaders/ characters on the pitch - no matter how good players are, any team needs this.
2) unbelievable lack of a plan from the management/ coaching team - Roy et al should be ashamed
There was one set of amateurs last night and it wasn't Iceland..........
Thats the bare minimum, anything else is failure. hes lucky he didnt get the boot after the shocking showing in Brazil
Out of the euros and out of the eu, what a great time to be alive.
What a week. Not much to be proud about at the moment!Never mind , perhaps you could start a petition to have us reinstated ;D
What a week. Not much to be proud about at the moment!
going to be interesting to see how Wembley try to sell 90,000 tickets for the upcoming game against the mighty Malta. :D
Have a break will you
What has the EU got to do with this?
There's a whole thread for the EU stop infecting other threads with EU nonsense
50/50 for me. proud as punch not to be called a european but yes desperate times for our national sport
But you are still european? we havent left europe, we have left the european union.
you know what i mean
going to be interesting to see how Wembley try to sell 90,000 tickets for the upcoming game against the mighty Malta. :D
He hasn't made a link - just emphasising the point that it's a thoroughly pooh time to be English.
I was so angry last night I could barely sleep.
I just don't get why the England team never shows true passion, determination and grit. The Italians before us showed it in abundance, they really care, are loyal to each other and put their bodies on the line for their country.
England players can do that for their clubs but cant when they put the three lions top on, something which should make them even more determined but it makes them shy away and wilt.
Why Harry Kane thinks he can (and has been told to) take Ronaldo style free kicks (when even Cristiano himself cant seem to do it anymore) will be a greater mystery than life after death. Surely there was 1 tiny braincell in the team somewhere that could have suggested that taking that free kick, 2-1 down against Iceland with time running out was a bad idea.
Rooney is a farce and has been for years. He hides behind his goalscoring vs teams like San Marino but has not showed up in big games since he was a teenager.
Yes Hodgson has to take blame for bad tactics and subs, but lets be honest any team he picked in any formation should have had the balls and ability to beat Iceland.
I want someone like Shearer to come in, I don't care if he does not have the tactical knowledge because that has got us nothing so far, I want a bunch of players who actually give a hoot about playing for their country.
I was so angry last night I could barely sleep.
I just don't get why the England team never shows true passion, determination and grit. The Italians before us showed it in abundance, they really care, are loyal to each other and put their bodies on the line for their country.
England players can do that for their clubs but cant when they put the three lions top on, something which should make them even more determined but it makes them shy away and wilt.
Why Harry Kane thinks he can (and has been told to) take Ronaldo style free kicks (when even Cristiano himself cant seem to do it anymore) will be a greater mystery than life after death. Surely there was 1 tiny braincell in the team somewhere that could have suggested that taking that free kick, 2-1 down against Iceland with time running out was a bad idea.
Rooney is a farce and has been for years. He hides behind his goalscoring vs teams like San Marino but has not showed up in big games since he was a teenager.
Yes Hodgson has to take blame for bad tactics and subs, but lets be honest any team he picked in any formation should have had the balls and ability to beat Iceland.
I want someone like Shearer to come in, I don't care if he does not have the tactical knowledge because that has got us nothing so far, I want a bunch of players who actually give a hoot about playing for their country.
You compare us to Italy and then in the same post say you'd have a manager with no tactical acumen.
Italy have arguably the best tactical manager in Europe. Glad you don't work for the FA.
it was quite obvious to see during the Italy game that each player was well drilled in there roles, and in what to do to cover the player next to them.
people were saying this was one of the weakest Italy teams in decades before the tournament. but they've proved that talent isn't everything and playing as a team is.
People go on about passion, grit, wanting it and that has been the problem with the English mentality for years. Our failings have nothing to do with that. Do people really think the players don't want to win? Seriously?
Five years ago we were struggling for players with technical ability we have a number of them, enough to be a force at international level. What we didn't have at this tournament was a manager capable of making the right decisions. He took away the strengths of Kane and Alli who the team should've been built around. Neither looked anything like the players they are, Kane in particular. He was too deep in open play almost all the time when he should've been giving the centre halves problems. I can barely remember him being in the penalty area creating any problem and why the hell he's taking corners and wide free kicks - can someone please explain that to me? It's utterly stupid.
If you are going to play Sturridge (I wouldn't he's not a tournament player for me) you play him up front. If you add him to Kane and Alli that is three players straight away that are not being used properly.
Raheem Sterling runs into people,that's pretty much it. He shouldn't have been in the squad. His selection last night was ridiculous. Jack Wilshire hasn't played all season yet he's taken to the Euro's - again wrong.
Adam Lallana is poor in front of goal but technically he's very good on the ball, he moves it quickly and he continues the tempo of the game. He should've been playing one side of a diamond ........... which brings me to Jamie Vardy. In flying form goals galore and isn't used enough, should've started alongside Kane.
The system was wrong from the off. We played two wide men one of whom isn't a winger the other isn't a footballer. A left footer on the right and a right footer on the left last night when we needed width. What are they going to do they are mainly going to come inside onto their stronger foot. Madness again. Sterling is a runner, that's it. Yet again in a major tournament we've gone for a sprinter. We've had all this before with the Lennon'sand the Wright-Phillips's and we go and do it again.
We never ever learn.
We have wasted this tournament mainly through woeful management.
Watch out for floods on the Welsh / English border.
The Welsh are pi$$ing themselves laughing.
That list is desperate :o
Only one on there for me would be Hoddle but has he been out of the game for too long.
Howe has just had his first season as a Premier League mamager, nowhere near capable of taking this job, maybe in 10 years when he's more experienced, time will tell, the rest Pardew, Southgate, Neville, Redknapp :o :o
We need to look abroad again at someone who has done it in a tournament at the top level, not someone who is a nice bloke with a face that fits and is not scared to kick a few backsides when its needed and upset a few of these pampered tossers.
What really hurts is that you just know the majority of the players probably don't give a rats ass.
They walk off the coach with their headphones on, shut off from the world. Give a half-arsed performance on the pitch. Collapse in "despair". Wheel out the same old robotic tripe in interviews. Headphones back on, on the coach and off to the beach for a month.
That list is desperate :o
Only one on there for me would be Hoddle but has he been out of the game for too long.
Howe has just had his first season as a Premier League mamager, nowhere near capable of taking this job, maybe in 10 years when he's more experienced, time will tell, the rest Pardew, Southgate, Neville, Redknapp :o :o
We need to look abroad again at someone who has done it in a tournament at the top level, not someone who is a nice bloke with a face that fits and is not scared to kick a few backsides when its needed and upset a few of these pampered tossers.
I don't think you necessarily need 10 years worth of Prem experience to be an international manager. It's a completely different kettle of fish. A load of experienced club managers have failed at international level - Ranieri, Cappello, McClaren, Blanc to name a few.
I was crying out for Mourinho to not get the Utd job as I thought he would be perfect for the England job. But it's not to be!
If you want a tournament specialist it has to be Guus Hiddink.
If you want a young and pragmatic manager of any nationality my pick would be Slaven Bilic.
Otherwise I also agree that Howe would be my choice of English manager.
Some of the names being mentioned for next manager are scary. Allardyce, Redknapp, Pardew, Southgate NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
Glenn Hoddle all the way, perfect for tournament football, he'd be my choice.
I said Hoddle too, they should never have got rid of him in the first place
We got rid of him off the back of the birth of political correctness.
Redknapp's been mouthing off plenty since Hodgson quit. Nothing like being bitter.
I have voted other. My choice slaven bilic. Experienced national team manager and knows the English game
Pepe Mel, anyone?not in a million years
we need to hit the ground running here, no intrim appointments, our first Qualfying game for the world cup is Slovakia away
The problem I have with Eddie Howe is the fact that he has never managed top quality players. With respect to Bournemouth they are small fish in a large pond and its is a totally different ball game managing top international players and playing international tournament football.Agree re: Howe, don't think he would be strong enough or get the respect of our so called superstars.
The two best Englishmen for the job are the two who have done it before Hoddle and Terry Venables. We could easily with a fair slice of luck have won the World Cup when Sol Campbell's header was wrongly ruled out and Euro '96 when Gazza missed the ball by an inch. Some things no-one can account for. Those two managed those campaigns superbly.
Venables is too old now unfortunately but Hoddle isn't.
This notion that the game has "moved on" is total claptrap. Two weeks ago everyone said you can't play 4-4-2 anymore - well Iceland do. Italy have played three at the back and two up top. EVERY system works you just have to do what suits the players you have and their strengths which is completely what Hodgson didn't do.
I wouldn't like to see a foreign manager. Call it xenophobic, call it racist, call it what you want but the England team should be managed by an Englishman.
Talk in todays Mail of an interim manager before appointing Wenger in 12 months time when is contract finishes at Arsenal
Quote of the day from Harry Redknapp:
Ashworth is now part of the three-man FA panel, alongside Chief Executive Martin Glenn and vice-chairman David Gill, that will recruit Hodgson's successor.
And Redknapp has little faith in Ashworth or the FA to make the right decision.
"Roy Hodgson could not possibly have survived as England manager," the former Tottenham boss said.
"But I've got no faith whatsoever in the Football Association picking the right man to succeed him.
"Can anyone trust the FA to get the right man?
"We've got the farcical situation of Dan Ashworth picking the next England manager and I’m really not sure about his credentials either
"It appears that anyone connected with West Brom seems to have a chance."
All from Birmingham Mail article, http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/successful-former-west-brom-talent-11540090#rlabs=1%20rt$category%20p$6 (http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/successful-former-west-brom-talent-11540090#rlabs=1%20rt$category%20p$6)
Quote of the day from Harry Redknapp:
"We've got the farcical situation of Dan Ashworth picking the next England manager and I’m really not sure about his credentials either"
Getting sick of the Hodgson bashing. He had to go after the Iceland game no doubt about it but overall he did do a good job. You need some luck in tournaments and we didn't get any, one game does not define Hodgson's England career so I think he can hold his head up high.
Getting sick of the Hodgson bashing. He had to go after the Iceland game no doubt about it but overall he did do a good job. You need some luck in tournaments and we didn't get any, one game does not define Hodgson's England career so I think he can hold his head up high.
he as, Neil Ashton from the sun "Tony Pulis is a student of the game, he is motivated and a strong leader. He gets results and would take the job.Sadly he would be too strong a character for FA types"
Yes you're right and we need the right appointment. Some of the names being mentioned are crazy I mean can you see Redknapp or Allardyce managing England?
I wouldn't pick Southgate he's had no success whatsoever with any senior side.
I'm surprised Pulis hasn't been mentioned. ;D
The problem I have with Eddie Howe is the fact that he has never managed top quality players. With respect to Bournemouth they are small fish in a large pond and its is a totally different ball game managing top international players and playing international tournament football.
The two best Englishmen for the job are the two who have done it before Hoddle and Terry Venables. We could easily with a fair slice of luck have won the World Cup when Sol Campbell's header was wrongly ruled out and Euro '96 when Gazza missed the ball by an inch. Some things no-one can account for. Those two managed those campaigns superbly.
Venables is too old now unfortunately but Hoddle isn't.
This notion that the game has "moved on" is total claptrap. Two weeks ago everyone said you can't play 4-4-2 anymore - well Iceland do. Italy have played three at the back and two up top. EVERY system works you just have to do what suits the players you have and their strengths which is completely what Hodgson didn't do.
I wouldn't like to see a foreign manager. Call it xenophobic, call it racist, call it what you want but the England team should be managed by an Englishman.
Claudio Ranieri Anyone?
took an un-fancied side and made them champions.
Just read an article.
England have only won 7 matches in knock out football since 1966.
Paraguay 1986
Belgium 1990
Cameroon 1990
Spain 1996
Denmark 2002
Ecuador 2006
Wales 2016
If that is the case.
We are a very poor side.
Getting sick of the Hodgson bashing. He had to go after the Iceland game no doubt about it but overall he did do a good job. You need some luck in tournaments and we didn't get any, one game does not define Hodgson's England career so I think he can hold his head up high.Maybe not one game, but I can think of a couple of tournaments. Hey-ho...these things happen. ;)
6 knockout tournement wins since 1950, i think the whole FA needs a shake up
Thats hilarious, quite possibly the worst england manager ever,including the wolly. we played all the dog & ducks in the qualifiers.
lets get your mate irvine to save us :)
Do you really believe that? :o
Capello, McClaren, Keegan, turnip head much worse and that's off the top of my head.
Do you really believe that? :o
Capello, McClaren, Keegan, turnip head much worse and that's off the top of my head.
Bit kneejerk all this, Graham Taylor certainly worse, failing at Euro 92 and not qualifying for the USA World Cup, Ron Greenwood similarly failed to qualify back in 78, albeit the strange format at the 82 World Cup did him no favours, leaving unbeaten after a 2nd group stage. Steve McClaren was also definitely worse. Be hard pressed to make a case for many others though.
Swansea/Cardiff :D
i had time to sleep on it. hes a faliure at tournement football but you could say at least he got us there, hes more suited to long grind it out season type of football not knock out football.
so where next for Roy
Nice to see Wayne hiding his disappointment of crashing out of the Euros on his Jet Ski off the Spanish coast.
Nice to see Wayne hiding his disappointment of crashing out of the Euros on his Jet Ski off the Spanish coast.
What do you want him to do cancel all family holidays?
is his football any better than Tones, pretty much the same for me
Tell the England team...
"That's what passion is and can do!"
Your next England Line up, would you start with Joe Hart?Is it time for Rooney to retire
Big Sam is my choice and hes looking like the favourite. he is perfect for the role and his style the england way is best
What Wales have done has really killed off the "foreigners are ruining our chances" argument. The Welsh players have come through the same clubs as the English players. There is no excuse for our perpetual failure.
But Wales didnt win anything either?? So have they now become a failure??
When we were reaching SF and QF stages we were still being classed as failures because we didnt win anything...
But Wales didnt win anything either?? So have they now become a failure??
When we were reaching SF and QF stages we were still being classed as failures because we didnt win anything...
Wales don't have the same expectations as England and they've had one decent tournament. They have reached their peak, had their moment in the sun. It'll be business as normal from now onwards.
Big Sam would be a decent appointment for me, this guy is no yes man...
Its about winning games or grinding them out ala Portugal....their boss was sacked as Greece coach previously would we take him or even consider him for the England role?? No we wouldnt
My personal choice would be Hoddle but I can see Klinsmann getting it
What worked for Portugal won't work for England. Portugal is a nation of 10 million people and their expectation and size of national fervour isn't the same as Englands. When England employed defensive tactics in a tournament the media turned on them and so largely did the public. The likes of Greece, Portugal and Denmark can get away with playing like that. The likes of England and France can't.
It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking we have to do a Portugal or club teams have to do a Leicester because those teams succeeded last season. Lets not forget that Barcelona won La Liga and Real Madrid won the Champions League.
It's about playing to strengths and getting the most effective results from the tools you have at your disposal.
I never fell into a trap of thinking we should do a Portugal??
What I'm saying is that its not always the biggest names or best league managers that make the best international managers, its horses for courses.
Portugal has a very high expectancy level at International level don't know why you think they don't
I wouldn't mind Ian Holloway having a go at the job, would be a laugh anyway.
This 'identity' thing is important if nothing else than to ensure all age groups are aware of how they're expected to play.
To me, the closest to a traditional English style in the modern era (pressing and with pace and width) is probably Juergen Klopp's Borussia Dortmund . I'm lot saying he should get the job.
I've watched England for the last 20 years look confused and unsure of their roles, players out of position. We need a clear plan of how to play and we need a strong character to enforce that plan.
No one leaps out but I could see Eddie Howe working with the young attacking players we have. We need energy and vision now, perhaps a younger guy would take the opportunity to put his own mark on the team at all levels.
Agree with everything you say, but we also have to stop the "play the media darling" thing as well. If the manager wants to play a team over personalities, so be it !
This 'identity' thing is important if nothing else than to ensure all age groups are aware of how they're expected to play.Should do away with the manager and do it online.
To me, the closest to a traditional English style in the modern era (pressing and with pace and width) is probably Juergen Klopp's Borussia Dortmund . I'm lot saying he should get the job.
I've watched England for the last 20 years look confused and unsure of their roles, players out of position. We need a clear plan of how to play and we need a strong character to enforce that plan.
No one leaps out but I could see Eddie Howe working with the young attacking players we have. We need energy and vision now, perhaps a younger guy would take the opportunity to put his own mark on the team at all levels.
This 'identity' thing is important if nothing else than to ensure all age groups are aware of how they're expected to play.
To me, the closest to a traditional English style in the modern era (pressing and with pace and width) is probably Juergen Klopp's Borussia Dortmund . I'm lot saying he should get the job.
I've watched England for the last 20 years look confused and unsure of their roles, players out of position. We need a clear plan of how to play and we need a strong character to enforce that plan.
No one leaps out but I could see Eddie Howe working with the young attacking players we have. We need energy and vision now, perhaps a younger guy would take the opportunity to put his own mark on the team at all levels.
Should do away with the manager and do it online.
Fans pay a subscription to get to vote on formation and team selection and we just employ coaches to follow our orders, if they don't they're toast! We could even decide on subs, in-play, via an app! :)
If we get to the final we all get free tickets! :)
Should do away with the manager and do it online.
Fans pay a subscription to get to vote on formation and team selection and we just employ coaches to follow our orders, if they don't they're toast! We could even decide on subs, in-play, via an app! :)
If we get to the final we all get free tickets! :)
I agree with your post but unfortunately the suits at the FA cant/wont see it like that.wasnt that the entire point of appointing Ashworth? And this "DNA England" program to build something up from top to tail and have an identity?
Tournament football is all about not losing and therefore a Pulis/Allardyce character is ideal for England. What worries me is that another part of the role is to set the direction in which English football moves forward and do not lose is a horrible mantra.and neither of them have ever won a cup which is as close to a tournament that club football can give. are they that much different to Hodgson who failed shockingly in two major tournaments. why not go polar opposite and employ someone who goes all out to win, after all what have we got to lose.
BreakingAllardyce clear for England talks.From one dinosaur to another
Sunderland have given The FA permission to speak to Sam Allardyce about the vacant England manager job
What has Deschamps won as manager?
What had Fernando Santos won prior to Portugal winning the Euro's??
Absolutely nothing
Its not about the BEST manager for the job its about the RIGHT manager
Totally agree on Hoddle though thats who I want appointed
If big Sam gets it,it'll be like watching Mike basset, but then again we are comedyWhy will it be like watching Mike Bassett??
I don't think we win anything for at least eight years
If big Sam gets it,it'll be like watching Mike basset, but then again we are comedySo there's a glimmer of hope for us at last. 8)
I don't think we win anything for at least eight years
If big Sam gets it,it'll be like watching Mike basset, but then again we are comedy
I don't think we win anything for at least eight years
Not sure about your comparison, but 8 years? Mate we're LIGHT years away from winning anything. We are a poor, poor side.
I genuinely don't believe that England currently have the players.we where still rubbish with that lot aswell!!
How many of Hodgsons squad have been a regular first choice or one of the top players at their clubs for 3-4 seasons???
To my mind Hart and Rooney.
Danny Rose - he was a winger 2 seasons ago
Cahill - is kept out of the Chelsea team by JT when he's fit
Smalling - had his first good season this year
Deli Ali, Dier and Kane - first good season maybe second for Kane
Sterling warms man citehs bench
Vardy - 1 1/2 good seasons.
Sturridge and wilshere - spend more time on the treatment table than big Vic
The current squad is a long way from players like Neville, terry, Cole, Gerard, Ferdinand, lampard, scholes, beckham etc all these boys were first choice at top clubs winning trophies for years on end.
The quality simply isn't there with the current bunch.
We certainly don't have the quality but just as importantly we don't have the desire either. Look at how well a very average Wales squad have done. I like Big Sam but he's never an intetnational manager in a million years.
We certainly don't have the quality but just as importantly we don't have the desire either. Look at how well a very average Wales squad have done. I like Big Sam but he's never an intetnational manager in a million years.We need someone who is their own man, not a puppet of the FA or scared of upsetting the precious players. Needs to have a clear game plan and stick to it, using the best players, in the correct positions, at the time, regardless of who they play for.
Brilliant news this is
Love Big Sam, a real character, won't take egos and will get England playing the correct way that suits us none of this continental rubbish we seem to try and emulate
As a Welshman it's a great appointment for you. The big thing is that those who deserve to play will and that's been lacking since Sven's early years.
Kevin Nolan recall
Jay jay okocha is checking to see if he's still got that Union Jack tea towel
Sorry but I think we have gone backwards, and that should have been impossible.
I think it's a step sideways tbh. Allardyce offers nothing more than Roy did - less in fact, if you take into account Roy's experience of international football. We have to face facts that we don't have any truly great managers any more, and there are a myriad of reasons for that.
I don't think he'll quite be as hopeless as some are expecting though. He does have a knack for using interesting new techniques, often being at the forefront of them, and he does have a history of signing some very good, exciting flair players (Okocha, Djourkaeff, Khasri, for example).
So Sams first squad selection, same old faces? Rooney captain?As the first game is only a couple of weeks into the season i cant see he has much room to manoeuvre. Whilst we can moan about our performances at the Euros i reckon that 95 % of us would have picked at least 17 of the 20 outfield players Roy picked, just goes to show the paucity of talent.Another problem he has to overcome and one Roy failed to is picking a balanced squad/team as too many of our supposedly best players want to play in the same position.Wouldnt be a massive shock to see a recall for Defoe. One thing about Sam is i wouldnt expect being a darling of the London media wont carry too much weight with him
I was shocked at how little of a plan Roy seemed to have and how unbalanced that squad/ team looked. Under Roy, Albion were always well drilled, organised and compact but still counter attacked well and at pace. That sort of game should've suited the players we had well. I think Roy ended up picking names and shoe horned them in rather than making a team unit. I'd see Sam as having more of an ego, a belief in himself and so should pick a team unit rather than names at big clubs.Yes, hopefully.
England squad to be announced today, first one for Big Sam.
Do we expect any changes to the squad that went to the Euros, or same old same old?
is it today, thought it was on sunday, i may be wrong but an interesting one from big Sam
Think he'll include Defoe and maybe some West Ham players like Noble, Antonio or Cresswell
Think he'll include Defoe and maybe some West Ham players like Noble, Antonio or Cresswell
i have no problem with Terry coming back if Sam thinks hes the man
My only concern with Terry returning would be, why?
He surely only has 1 more year left in him at most at the top level, hes not going to be around come the next world cup, surely this campaign should be to establish two centre halves who will play together up to and including the world cup.
You would hope he shows some of the other players how to be a leader on the field.
Had no leaders in that world cup squad. Barely even a captain.
Terry is a leader and we seriously lack leaders in the squad. Look at the players in the Euro 96 squad or WC 98 squad. It was full of leaders and players who were current or future captains of the teams.
It is a massive reason why were are failing now IMO so I'm 100% behind the return of Terry.
what keeper do you think will start, Frazier forster for me
Antonio is in and he is rubbish. Other than that nothing much to comment on. Luke Shaw is back after his injury which is a positive I think he is the best left back in the world. Right back to his best after his injury I've watched him closely in two games and he has made one mistake. This boy is so under-rated, he's got the lot.
Seems to be heavily rumoured on good old Twitter that Jordan Henderson will be named England Captain tomorrow, hopefully its just the usual Twitter trolls.
I don't really get why people (mostly the media) are kicking up such a fuss over Barkley being excluded. He's had a couple of good games this season, but he was awful last, and one swallow does not make a summer.
Antonio is in and he is rubbish. Other than that nothing much to comment on. Luke Shaw is back after his injury which is a positive I think he is the best left back in the world. Right back to his best after his injury I've watched him closely in two games and he has made one mistake. This boy is so under-rated, he's got the lot.
Wish we could have gone for Marek HamÅ¡Ãk. I thought he was excellent in the Euros. hes playing tonight for Slovakia
The manager remains the same but the truth is our players aren't technically good enough and tactically aware enough
The manager remains the same but the truth is our players aren't technically good enough and tactically aware enough
As i've always said take the foreign players out of the Premier League and its nothing.
The players are good enough they are playing a way that doesn't suit them.
I'm not sure they are. I can't think of many players who 1 v 1 can beat a man and create something out of nothing
And we don't have a recognisable style. The dutch make every U21 team play 4-3-3 because that is their style. The Spain keep possesion, the Italians are tactically astute and defensively solid.
We don't have that. It's just pace, pace, pace. We're playing a deep lying defence packed with men so we bring on Walcott...it doesn't make sense!!
We don't need to beat men 1 v 1.
Sam's substitutions here have been a joke I agree. Pace does not win games at tournament level and we haven't figured that out in what 20 / 25 years?
The likes of Walcott shouldn't be near an England squad.
The players are good enough they are playing a way that doesn't suit them.
I don't agree.
Pick a European 11, never mind a world 11, and see what positions our players could take.
How many would Portugal's take and they won the Euro's.
How many would Portugal's take and they won the Euro's.
Get rid of Rooney and the 5 Spurs players. Instant improvements.
Keeper
Walker CB CB Shaw (preferabl)
Dier
Henderson Lallana
Rooney
Kane Vardy
No one can tell me that isn't a more suitable set up.
Weren't we supposed to be getting a brave new world when Allardyce took over? Instead, he seems to have picked almost all of the same players who performed so despicably poorly at Euro 2016 and they've just about managed to scrape a win against 10-man Slovakia.
If Rooney ends up wandering deep in this team the only person creating opportunities is basically Lallana.
what other players can he pick. Gardner mcmanaman? He got to make the best of what we got
Vardy should be playing for sure. Kane / Vardy is a partnership style wise made in heaven yet we never use it. Plain stupid.
Kane shouldn't be anywhere near the team in this form. He's been absolutely awful since the end of last season.
Needs a fresh start.
Butland
Clyne
Stones
Smalling
Shaw
Noble
Drinkwater
Lallana
Barkley
Sterling
Sturridge
Are you serious?
Barkley is not good enough. Sterling is rubbish at international level. Sturridge is a china doll flicker. noble is not good enough.
No offence but that team is rubbish.
Yet it's better than one based round Rooney and Kane (from an attacking perspective)
I disagree with your backing of the one dimensional Vardy. No offence...
Yet it's better than one based round Rooney and Kane (from an attacking perspective)
I disagree with your backing of the one dimensional Vardy. No offence...
The thing is, Vardys one dimension involves scoring goals. Something we need to do.
No his one dimension is running in behind very high defensive lines and converting around 1 in every 4 or 5.
Never an international footballer.
Absolute rubbish.
Weren't we supposed to be getting a brave new world when Allardyce took over? Instead, he seems to have picked almost all of the same players who performed so despicably poorly at Euro 2016 and they've just about managed to scrape a win against 10-man Slovakia.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/09/26/exclusive-investigation-england-manager-sam-allardyce-for-sale/
Interesting....
Pretty sure that's the end of him...
Plenty more revelations promised throughout the week, let's hope it doesn't touch WBA.
What an utter moron.
Using your position to score a few after dinner speaking is one thing, but colluding with big business in the party ownership of players and circumvent FA rules just inimical to the England manager's job for me and he has to go.
Who's next then? Our Tone? (For the England job rather than the scandal!)
What's the record for the shortest tenure of an England manager? Because Sam is surely going to be the new holder of it...
Money can easily corrupt people, this is a decent example of it. It is truly staggering how stupid he has been to allow himself to be in such a position. I know you have to almost be a Saint if you take the England job as the press will just continue to dig to get anything on you but he's done all of their work for them with this one, if it was anyone other than the FA I would expect him to lose his job but they bottle it time after time.
When he's on £3mill a year though he surely doesn't need to be taking bungs
My concern if they get rid of him who's Ne t on the list.......Steve Bruce
All this talk from Allardyce about advising the group on how to get around third party ownership and then among the favourites to take over the job if he gets the sack is Alan Pardew who helped bring the issue into the spotlight by signing Tevez and Mascherano when at West Ham ;D
It truly is pathetic to think we have so few options for the job.
All this talk from Allardyce about advising the group on how to get around third party ownership and then among the favourites to take over the job if he gets the sack is Alan Pardew who helped bring the issue into the spotlight by signing Tevez and Mascherano when at West Ham ;D
It truly is pathetic to think we have so few options for the job.
My concern if they get rid of him who's Ne t on the list.......Steve Brucegoing to put my tin hat on now and suggest the FA reinstate hoddle,he had us purring if memory serves and only got booted over a silly religious issue
going to put my tin hat on now and suggest the FA reinstate hoddle,he had us purring if memory serves and only got booted over a silly religious issue
I think that saying disabled people did something bad in a previous life is a bit more than a silly religious issue.No its not if you have an atheist opinion of it,who knows if there's anything after your dead? Anyway money and corruption is far more important than a silly self held belief
Has he done anything that really warrants the sack - no matter how stupid his actions have been
He was offered £400,000 to do some after dinner speaking arrangements and presentations - he didn't accept that money - he reiterated that it would need the seal of approval from the FA.
He totally batted off the idea of player bungs - referring to the people as 'stupid' and stating quite clearly that 'they cannot go there'. Nothing wrong with Allardyce there and nothing which warrants the sack.
The bigger issue is the third party issue where he explained how that rule is bypased and that was by quoting examples of players which had been signed. This was the most uncomfortable of the lot.
As for the rest - well, most of it was pretty accurate in his assessment of Hodgson, the players and Wembley.
It was a stupid, naive predicament to end up in but not one which warrants the sack. My, opinions might be different however had Allardyce taken money from the proposed group or encouraged player bungs but he hasn't.
A number of ex pros coming out saying he should be allowed to clear his name and it would be a shame for him to lose his job over non footballing reasons, and I have to say that everyone makes mistakes, it's just that some are costly.
He should lose his job for a number of reasons. He has slated his employers and fellow professionals openly, how can players trust him now?
Very stupid. What message does it send if the fa do not punish him?
I'm sticking £10 on Bruce to be made manager .. Which would be a disaster.
I feel desperately sorry for Allardyce, naive yes,certainly let his guard down, but straight talking and honest and certainly not guilty of anything other than probably 80-90% of people in similar positions in the game are guilty of. Where there is seriously big money at stake then corruption is everywhere, regardless of the sport or industry in question. Fine, get rid of corrupt/potentially corrupt individuals but then f**k SKY off and all the TV money, f**k off the obscene wages and millionaire players and we might have an honest game again. Until then we have to accept that this is the nature of our once great sport and that these revelations are not in the slightest bit unexpected.Why feel sorry for him? He should have learned his lesson ten years ago along with his son in the panarama bribes/ bungs scandal,some folk never learn because of GREED
Why feel sorry for him? He should have learned his lesson ten years ago along with his son in the panarama bribes/ bungs scandal,some folk never learn because of GREED
Could be very guilty of putting two + two together........
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37489071
He isn't the only one though is he. He is probably in the MAJORITY! Yes, as position as England manager that makes his position untenable I suppose, but like I say, there are probably a large number of managers at the higher levels of the game who are taking full advantage of the money flying around in the game in this era. Where there is serious wealth in a particular sport/game/industry, there will ALWAYS be greed and ALWAYS be corruption. That's the nature of the beast that the game in the SKY generation has created.Never said that he's the only one,but I did say he had previous.other big name coaches must be bricking it ATM as the telegraph have others to out
He isn't the only one though is he. He is probably in the MAJORITY! Yes, as position as England manager that makes his position untenable I suppose, but like I say, there are probably a large number of managers at the higher levels of the game who are taking full advantage of the money flying around in the game in this era. Where there is serious wealth in a particular sport/game/industry, there will ALWAYS be greed and ALWAYS be corruption. That's the nature of the beast that the game in the SKY generation has created.
Never said that he's the only one,but I did say he had previous.other big name coaches must be bricking it ATM as the telegraph have others to out
Sky didn't create anything that wasn't already there. Allardyce is in the classic vain of English dodgy dealer managers. They've always been around. If anything you'd think the money they get these days would negate the need for corruption. The guys given away his dream job for what is for him a fairly trivial amount of money.
And as a reminder - if those names do not have any connection with the national team then they will need a new thread
He isn't the only one though is he. He is probably in the MAJORITY! Yes, as position as England manager that makes his position untenable I suppose, but like I say, there are probably a large number of managers at the higher levels of the game who are taking full advantage of the money flying around in the game in this era. Where there is serious wealth in a particular sport/game/industry, there will ALWAYS be greed and ALWAYS be corruption. That's the nature of the beast that the game in the SKY generation has created.You are right about Human nature and greed but Alladyce makes me 100% sick. He did this as England manager on a contract of £3m. For over the last decade I have given freely of my time to coach junior players in local clubs. I deserve better. Many many others do the same week in week out. They deserve better. Local FA officials work hard with us to improve the game. They deserve better. An incredibly stupid, selfish & arrogant act by Alladyce.
Has to be said what a great bit of investigative journalism they obviously went after Allardyce....looking forward to seeing what else they found out.
Doubt this was about the money..400k is a lot but not to him..think this was more the kudos and ego of being the England Manager..and a lot of "look at me I can make things happen"...also what on earth were his 2 accomplices thinking...just shows that you don't need to have much up top to make money in this game...Yep, all about ego and trying to be the big man.
"entrapment has won this time"
don't get entrapped then you greedy sod...you could have said No and not been so eager to tell people how to get round FA and FIFA rules.
How you can blame undercover reporters for outing you as the greedy cheat you are is unbelievable of him
"entrapment has won this time"This quote annoys me more than anything. >:(
don't get entrapped then you greedy sod...you could have said No and not been so eager to tell people how to get round FA and FIFA rules.
How you can blame undercover reporters for outing you as the greedy cheat you are is unbelievable of him
Too thick to know when to shut up ! EejitI heard a journalist on TS suggest they used to but recent FA "cuts" have meant they no longer do this. ???
I do wonder why FA do not insist upon having their own team "support" the Manager, it should be a contractual obligation.
I heard a journalist on TS suggest they used to but recent FA "cuts" have meant they no longer do this. ???
Must be tough making every penny count at the FA.
"entrapment has won this time"
don't get entrapped then you greedy sod...you could have said No and not been so eager to tell people how to get round FA and FIFA rules.
How you can blame undercover reporters for outing you as the greedy cheat you are is unbelievable of him
Ralf Rangnick's name has sprung up again http://www.skysports.com/football/news/12016/10598372/fa-keen-to-speak-to-ralf-rangnick-over-england-job
Didn't he have a pretty horrendous time after the tenuous link with us pre Mel?Think the only manager job he had after the link with us was with Leipzig, where he had about a 60 per cent win rate, so the sort of horrendous that would make him a cult hero here :D
I'm in work or I'd look it up myself.
Think the only manager job he had after the link with us was with Leipzig, where he had about a 60 per cent win rate, so the sort of horrendous that would make him a cult hero here :D
So Southgate picks Glenn Johnson over Craig Dawson, an aged injury-prone right-back. Then Johnson gets injured so he picks Michael Keane.Agree, Johnson was off the pace at the last world cup in Brazil 2 years ago, so why he was picked I'll never know?
I've never been one to overly praise our own players but come on...that's a joke.
So Southgate picks Glenn Johnson over Craig Dawson, an aged injury-prone right-back. Then Johnson gets injured so he picks Michael Keane.
I've never been one to overly praise our own players but come on...that's a joke.
In fairness Craig Dawson works for us because of the way we play but even then I think we could get better as although he's improved he's still clearly a centre-half at right-back. I'm amazed anyone would seriously consider him for the National side at full-back regardless of a clear lack of options past Walker and Clyne.I agree with this - he'll never get near the side with those 2 around. However, my point was more aimed towards Southgate being clueless. It may be because he's relatively young and English but he's always had an easy ride as a manager. Relegated a good Boro side then did fairly poor at U21 level, he doesn't deserve the England job even as a temp.
So Southgate picks Glenn Johnson over Craig Dawson, an aged injury-prone right-back. Then Johnson gets injured so he picks Michael Keane.
I've never been one to overly praise our own players but come on...that's a joke.
Always amazes me why the FA put their arms around a player who won very little in his playing career like Southgate and bring him into the FA fold, yet let the likes of Beckham, Gerrard, Lampard and the likes who have a winning ,mentality just walk away when their playing days are over.
Always amazes me why the FA put their arms around a player who won very little in his playing career like Southgate and bring him into the FA fold, yet let the likes of Beckham, Gerrard, Lampard and the likes who have a winning ,mentality just walk away when their playing days are over.
To be fair though, given the three examples listed:So in short....they don't need the money, and definitely don't want the hassle.
1. Gerrard and Lampard are busy topping up their pensions in America
2. Mr Beckham has his fingers in an awful lot of pies, including one where he acts as an ambassador for the FA
So in short....they don't need the money, and definitely don't want the hassle.none of them have even alluded to wanting managerial careers.
none of them have even alluded to wanting managerial careers.
Part of the reason why England have to have full backs who can bomb down the pitch is that we dont have central midfielders who can can create anything so the pace down the flanks is the only way we can get behind the enemy lines. Dawson will surely move to centre back within the next couple of years.
When we're discussing Southgate and Howe as potential England managers it tells you everything you need to know about the lack of English managerial talent. And I dont buy this rubbish about foreign managers blocking the path of English managers. OK, so the top 4 or 5 clubs in the land will always go for the tried and tested and even the odd has been (Van whatsit @ United) but after that its open season. The Shearers and Gerrards are too wealthy and ambition less to become managers.
When everybody was jabbering on about Rooney playing too deep in midfield nobody said who he was keeping out of the team. We dont have any ball playing central midfielders and until we do we'll win nothing. Might as well give it to Southgate; at least he's honest and will look to develop and encourage the players he's got.
Managers aside, any England away followers on here?
Have you booked anything yet for France (a) and Malta (a)?
Just sorted France for £95 return , but trying to do Malta cheaply isn't ideal, at the moment our planned route is Luton - Malta (4 nights) then onto Rome for two and home .
How much does it tend to cost you mate?
I don't have any great affiliation for the national side but visiting new parts of the world with England fans is something that appeals to me
Managers aside, any England away followers on here?
Have you booked anything yet for France (a) and Malta (a)?
Just sorted France for £95 return , but trying to do Malta cheaply isn't ideal, at the moment our planned route is Luton - Malta (4 nights) then onto Rome for two and home .
we usually fly from East Mids to Malta but it's not a regular flight
Ye looked at that option, but was expensive back..
Managed to do Luton to Malta, Malta to Rome, Rome to Birmingham for £156 in total so not bad.
Any recommendations on where to stay in Malta? Looking at St Julians
Stayed in St Julian last year with a few pals.
We stayed in a cheap hotel called the Blue Sea St George or something along those lines. By far the cheapest one in the area.
We enjoy our boozy trips away and we've stayed in a fair few *hitholes and hostels, but that place takes the biscuit. You get what you paid for. Bathroom had flooded when we arrived, bed had no sheets, shower was just a pipe attached to the tap in the sink.
St Julians is spot on though! Great nightlife
Poor today!!
England was always a big love of mine but they are boring and can't even breakdown a rubbish Malta side
I've pretty much lost interest in them
We are rubbish
I look at that England side and genuinely believe it is the worst squad I can remember in 30 years.Possibly, I'm not that old but looking at this team compared to the players Sven had is ridiculous.
I look at that England side and genuinely believe it is the worst squad I can remember in 30 years.
Definitely agree 100%
But I honestly believe that this is going to last a good while longer.
Until more English players and managers start playing/ managing abroad for a living, we will never understand why we are failing so badly.
We have the players and all the facilities, along with the richest league in the world.
Nearly every player in the current team plays here in this country and has never played abroad. When you compare this to every other successful national side around the world. There is a massive difference.
I didnt think we play too badly.
As i repeatedly say in pub discussions whether we were good , bad or indifferent hardly matters because like it or not that is pretty much the team and certainly the squad most of us would pick.,In other words the best we have. What is scary is the number of players NOT regular choices for their clubs (has Gibbs started a league game this season?)on that basis alone we can never be serious contenders
As i repeatedly say in pub discussions whether we were good , bad or indifferent hardly matters because like it or not that is pretty much the team and certainly the squad most of us would pick.,In other words the best we have. What is scary is the number of players NOT regular choices for their clubs (has Gibbs started a league game this season?)on that basis alone we can never be serious contendersBut are they the best we've got for the system we play? We always seem to pick the so called best players from the top 6 clubs in the PL and we fail.
My rational behind it Robbo is: look at Gareth Bale, messi, and other world class players. They all all play in foreign countries and have improved massively, as they are not limited by the single minded thinking of how the game should be played.
Bale had a great euro's competition, Ronaldo was a winner in the same competition.
Most world class managers have managed in lots of foreign countries, therefore are also not limited by "how the game is supposed to be played".
If you look at the English game, it is structured in static formations in which positions for each and every player is limited and has to stay in there position for the system to work.
For instance Rooney yesterday had a free role, and all he did all game was sit in a defensive midfield role trying to dictate play and spread balls around the pitch ( a position he dose t naturally play and there are better equipped players for) which in my opinion was just a waste and really showed how limited he is as a player.
Has anyone also noticed the difference when Portugal or most other competing countries go down to 10 men they always seem to cope better than England. This IMO is simply because of the structure and our inability to change and adapt our game.
In England a left back is a left back and is not challenged to learn or try other positions. Where this seems to be a very different story abroad
Dire wasn't it, left on 70 minutes I was that bored, saying that still gutted im not in Slovenia now for tomorrows game
Went Ljubljana last year for the 3-2 game and it is a fantastic city. Ive also had to give this and the Slovakia game last month a miss as I have spent quite a lot the last two years on England away and especially at the Euros for 16 days.
Will be back on them next year though, definitely an addiction. The football is literally just 25% of the England away experience, visiting places like Ljubljana and San Marino is what does it for me, places you would very rarely visit if it wasn't for the football turn out to be the best.
Is that our Bostjan Cesar?
Is that our Bostjan Cesar?Gerim back Tony
Whats happened to Dele Alli??Alli does look awful as do Dier and Rose, let's hope they keep up the good work on Saturday!
He looks bang average right now
Poor poor England team, no guile or flair, lack of service
Most of that team is not international standard
What part does southgate play in that debacle, he did pick the squad and the team, maybe we just dont have many international footballers capable at the moment.
For me Southgate is not the man to lead england. Quite possibly the worst England performance in my lifetime last night
half the players wouldn't be in the team if they didn't have pace. Team full of athletes with no technical ability!
This has been a MAJOR problem for years and until we stop picking athletes we will never be a force. Walcott, Sturridge, Lingard, Sterling - none of them are good enough footballers.
Agree with 3 of those but Sturridge is the most technically gifted player in the squad not remotely an 'athlete' in football terms.
Sturridge is awful. All flicks and twenty yard selfish efforts that rarely test the keeper.
Yawn, he's better than Kane, Vardy and Rashford and that's all that really matters.
This might even warrant its own thread but here it is. Bloody disgraceful.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37832115 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37832115)
whos going to the Scotland game, whos excited about this game
Fully agree with you on this jimmy the match is on our pitch in our country we should tell that corrupt Fifa to do one and wear the poppy.
whos going to the Scotland game, whos excited about this game
I`M going England v Scotland with my Daughter and 2 son`s in law looking forward to it first time i`ve managed to get tickets for this event so i became a England supporters club member so much easier to get tickets.Have a great time, but I shouldn't let on that your daughter has 2 husbands or you could get your collars felt. ;)
Cannot see whats wrong with the squad there are no other better players to bring into it has to stick with what we`ve got
Waste of time are England. The squad is picked by the media and anyone in form is discounted if they play for an unfashionable club or championship club. Managers are solely there to toe the line with these celebrities. It needs someone to change the system. Look at the way Vardy has gone, prima donna like the rest. If we beat Scotland then big deal, we do have x10 their population! For younger WBA fans go back to 78/79 when Statham, Batson, Robson, Cunningham and Regis were all ignored.Until Robbo went to man u, then the caps flowed ! It was ever thus!
Waste of time are England. The squad is picked by the media and anyone in form is discounted if they play for an unfashionable club or championship club. Managers are solely there to toe the line with these celebrities. It needs someone to change the system. Look at the way Vardy has gone, prima donna like the rest. If we beat Scotland then big deal, we do have x10 their population! For younger WBA fans go back to 78/79 when Statham, Batson, Robson, Cunningham and Regis were all ignored.Add Bomber to that list.
So with Forster pulling out you would have thought Ben foster would have been called up
I'm going Friday but I agree Austin deserves a call up, jagielka is a terrible pick I'd like to have seen the boro centre half get a chance.
Striker wise Sturridge & vardy shouldn't be near the squad due to current form.
Kane should be told to find his fitness as well as his best form.
I'd rather see a championship player such as Dwight Gayle who is bang in form, talented and would put 150% in.
England are run by gutless cretins from the top.
What's sad is it wouldn't be difficult to sort it. Put football people in charge who care about english football and not sponsors and image ie charlton, brooking, shearer etc stop trying to copy other nations systems and play the English way. With heart soul and a good tempo.
Sadly it won't happen and we will always be a 2nd rate rubbish side with no passion as the players are muddy coddled and have It all before they're 21
Not having a go, but just out of interest what were your thoughts regarding Dan Ashworth when he was at the Albion?Think it's the latter mate. There are obviously genuine football people involved with the FA, but there are far too many bureaucrats and yes men, that suck the soul out of the game.
Did you think he was a gutless cretin who didn't care about the English game back then, or do you think he had his shoulders snapped and his spine removed once he signed up with the FA?
The squad should selected by a group like in cricket not just the managerReferendum anyone? ;D
The squad should selected by a group like in cricket not just the manager
Why?
They selected the England football team via committee/selectors many moons ago.
I think Walter Winterbottom was the first actual boss to choose the team himself back in 1947.
Can't see the point in going back to the old way.
Probably be even more of a compromise measure.
Let the England manager stand or fall by his own decisions.
i doubt that very much
I'm so glad Wilshire is in the squad again as I can remember all of the brilliant things he's done for us recently and over the years...........
Another pathetic squad largely filled with 'core players' who always get picked due to being connected to certain teams. Southgate is just another boring yes man with no imagination. We're no better than the likes of Poland etc at international level so don't bother getting your hopes up in the next tournament (as usual) as we'll fail as spectacularly as we always do.
Other than that, great stuff :)
I don't know why anyone worries about
. who the manager is
. how the squad is selected
. who is in form........
The fundamental issue is
OUR PLAYERS ARE NOT GOOD ENOUGH.
we have to look at why this the case.
Coaching
League structures
The english "style"
until we address these issues, we will keep the same cycle of expectation / disappointment / inquest ..... repeat
any body in glasgow today, i mean london really. jocks everywhere i would imagine
Stones is an accident waiting to happen.
If we're going to improve I've decided players like Stones will be key and should be encouraged. As long as he realises there is a time for row Z occasionally.Yes when you're last man you don't f##k about!.
Indeed Morrison and Fletcher start for the Scots.he`s injured,missed Spuds game at weekend
England line-up spot on for me aside from Rooney. About time Alli was left out.
Shocking really , Southgate is u21 at best. Sort this out FA you idiots
Decent play from Jimmy there...
Scotland hand some great footballers in the 60s 70s and eighties what's happenedProbably the Premier, Albion always had a few scots in the side as did every other team.
Did ok, Defence dodgy, a million miles off the class of the Spainsih FA vase team on the night.Nothing to look forward too really. Yes man Southgate will most likely get the gig.Picking injured players gets on my chest, what about current form for a change
Vardy - hadnt scored in 12 games.
Sturridge - Not getting much game time with Liverpool, hasnt scored in the league.
Rooney - Not getting game time at United.
Kane - Played around 70 minutes of football this season.
Vardy out Defoe in - 6 goals and one assist, constantly one of the best finishers in England yet always overlooked.Don't forget Lingaard. If he played for us and scored twice as many as he has for Utd. he still wouldn't be anywhere near the squad.
Sturridge out Austin in - 5 goals and one assist. Again has scored well in the top flight.
Rooney should just be out full stop.
Kane - in a friendly i can see why, good to get him back to fitness.
Thoughts on last night?
Thought we were very average at times (as usual) the sooner this country and everyone in the FA realise we arent a serious challenge to the better teams, the better chance we will have.
We just arent good enough, Spains team yesterday was made up mainly of squad players, they bring on Morata and Isco and it becomes 2-2.
I'm sorry but it's people like you that are the problem. In one breathe you say we aren't serious challengers to the top sides, and then the next you moan we got a 2-2 draw with Spain (a top side). I go home and away with England, and all the actual England supporters know we are not a top top side, and nor do we ever suggest we are. It's the people at home on the armchairs acting like Man Utd fans that do.
You also moan saying our 4 strikers shouldn't be picked, but if you think other sides our level and even top sides don't pick players off form or not getting a lot of game time then you are highly deluded. Holland played Depay and Wijnaldum. Italy played Darmian, and they also often start with Pelle who plays in China. Speaking of china, Lavezzi still gets picked for Argentina. Did Giroud still get in the France squad? Kompany hasn't played a lot recently, did you he still play for Belgium? I could go on, the list is endless. Managers pick players on quality as well as form, and rightly so. You need a mix of both. It's really not hard to understand. I like Charlie Austin but anyone who would pick him in a England starting 11 over Kane, Vardy or Sturridge is off their rocker.
They bought some better quality on and scored, no surprise really.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37972265 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37972265)
Cant we sack FIFA off now.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37972265 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37972265)
Cant we sack FIFA off now.
FIFA are gong down a path that will lead to a break away organisation I feel...
I hope so
So Southgate confirmed,4 years. quite possibly the lowest i have ever felt about the England football team
Problem is , you can't polish a turd. Regardless of gaffer , we're just not very good
but you can roll it in glitter......
I think he will surprise a lot of people been around the FA for a few years won a tournament with under 21`s knows the in`s and out`s of the FA knows the players has a wealth of knowledge of how England set up works I will always give players and managers a chance not like some.
You've just described a yes man.
How would you describe a "No man"?
Got my ticket for Hampden in June, cant wait :D
Got my ticket for Hampden in June, cant wait :D
If Jake Livermore is an international player then so am I.
I'm so glad that Defoe has been called up. A consistent scorer who has been consistently omitted from the England squads.
Dull, boring, rubbish. Much like the team.
£101. Hands up who's a complete and utter mug!
To be fair, who buys the full kit. Agree though that £60 for a football top that the team wears around 8 games a year is steep
They seek them here, they seek them there..... full kit w@nker's are everywhere ;) .
http://i67.tinypic.com/25jweoj.jpg[/img]](http://i67.tinypic.com/25jweoj.jpg) (http://[IMG)
Couldn't even beat Germany's third team and we just had to let poldolski have his moment lol we looked all over the place when jake left the field
Couldn't even beat Germany's third team and we just had to let poldolski have his moment lol we looked all over the place when jake left the field
Couldn't even beat Germany's third team and we just had to let poldolski have his moment lol we looked all over the place when jake left the field
The BBC is reporting this:
Behaviour of a section of England fans in Germany was "inappropriate, disrespectful and disappointing", says FA chairman Greg Clarke.
England lost 1-0 to Germany in Dortmund on Wednesday night, but a section of England supporters booed the German national anthem and sung chants referencing World War Two.
It is understood that the FA is trying to gather footage of the behaviour.
If found to be involved, supporters could be banned from attending games.
"The FA has consistently urged supporters to show respect and not to chant songs that could be regarded as insulting to others," said Clarke.
"Individuals who engage in such behaviour do not represent the overwhelming majority of England fans nor the values and identity we should aspire to as a football nation.
"We are working with the England Supporters Travel Club and speaking with the Football Supporters' Federation to come together to address this issue.
"Everyone involved in the game has a responsibility to ensure that attending a football match is a safe and enjoyable experience for all."
The FA part-fund the Football Supporters' Federation (FSF). This includes funding for an annual supporters' summit to discuss fan issues.
An FSF spokesperson said: "Over the last 20 years, English football fans have built a worldwide reputation for our passionate support and the vocal backing we give to our teams.
"Unfortunately little of the wit and imagination that goes into our club football songs is reflected at England games.
"England's travelling support is made of people of all ages from a range of clubs, many of whom have worked hard in recent years to improve our standing abroad and have expressed concern to us about these chants.
"We don't want to regress to a situation where that reputation is tarnished by the actions of a minority."
Once there were the Luftwaffe, who sent aircraft laden with incendiary devices to attack our fair land. Fortunately for us the Royal Airforce had Hurricanes and Spitfires to shoot down these aircraft and protect our grand parants. :D
Do we need to sing about it at the football though? I mean plenty have been bemoaning McClean making comments about someone who orchestrated the killing of people. No matter how it is sugar coated, a huge amount of people still died. Not really respectful or clever to be singing about it
Leaving for Wembley in about an hour.
My first full international.
Come on England 8) !
Its football, its tribal.. next you'll be asking to stop the liquidator due to causing Dingles distress or we have to stop singing SOTV.
Another example of the PC brigade taking over the world.
It's not though is it?
It's common sense. Why sing about the war and people dying at the football? If we started singing IRA songs I'm sure you'd have a different opinion
It's not though is it?I'm not one for PC i find it humourless, regarding the song i don't think their is any malice in the words or any meant by those singing it its just the usual football banter imo.
It's common sense. Why sing about the war and people dying at the football? If we started singing IRA songs I'm sure you'd have a different opinion
A fun song containing no swear words, factual and the month i spent in Germany for the world cup in 2006, where the song started... The locals thought was fine and some joined in. Modern Germans often take the Mick out their past.
We don't have to sanitizer everything.
Win
Qualify
Go out at the group stage
Repeat
;D
Southgate doing a cracking job as England manager, I really think we have a chance at next years World Cup. Not many nations with the young talent we have.
Southgate doing a cracking job as England manager, I really think we have a chance at next years World Cup. Not many nations with the young talent we have.
Is there anyone out there still bothering with England?
The attendance yesterday reflects the national interest at the moment IMO.
Is there anyone out there still bothering with England?
The attendance yesterday reflects the national interest at the moment IMO.
You don't stop supporting just because they haven't won a trophy. Otherwise we'd all have given up on Albion a long time ago.
Bizarrley Englang could benifit long term when we leave the EU. less eu footballers wanting to play in england with all the admin work, could open up spaces for british born footballers to flourish
Thank heavens yet another interminable international break is winding to a miserable conclusion. What utter stupidity that a fortnight without football is then followed by 3 games in a week - by jet-lagged players having had lumps kicked out of them.
Almost everyone has rightly been critical of the proposed new World cup format of 48 teams in the final, myself included. My suggestion is that the number of teams in the final be INCREASED to 128.
Why?
1. We could then have a proper knock-out cup - 5 rounds, semi-final, final- no mini-leages, no seeding.
2. There is no need for any qualifying stages, so no more international breaks..
Has the squad been announced for the Scotland and France gamesGoalkeepers:
whos going to the Scotland game and will you be taking your hard hat :)
whos going to the Scotland game and will you be taking your hard hat :)
might watch this game in the Rangers bar in Benidorm :)
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2017/06/05/england-squad-spend-48-hours-royal-marines-devon-does-not/
May just make some of them realise how lucky they are
England have made the under 20 world cup final, beating Italy 3-1.
England have made the under 20 world cup final, beating Italy 3-1.
Playing Venezuela in the final. Apparently this group also won the U17 Euros 3 years ago
Who is the coach? Go get him!!!Manager is Paul Simpson (ex winger with Man City, Derby, WW & various others).
It was this group that won the euros 3 years ago, only a handful of players are in both the winning side,
Battered Italy second half today, vene are going to be very tired come the final
Although 5 of the starting 11 from that final will almost certainly start on Sunday, as will Fry and possibly Armstrong from the bench so the retention rate is actually pretty good from that age group (taking into account Brown, Roberts and Gomez would be there but are missing for other reasons).
Out of interest why is Sam Field not involved in this? Wrong age group or not good enough?
Well he's in the under 19's but he's not in their squad for their Euro's either, but I suspect the reason for that is Pulis has pulled him out to keep him out as it clashes with pre-season. He was actually one of England's best players in their recent qualifiers.
In more surprisingly positive England news, they've also reached the final of the Toulon tournament for the second year running, also adding on to making the finals of the 2017 under 17 euro's which they lost on penalties after a keeper mistake in that last minute. This is unprecedented youth success for England who've historically done poorly at these tournaments, fingers can only be pointed at the clubs if they fail to break through. It'll be a crying shame because England are the equal of anyone at youth levels these days, after years of being outclassed but getting by on physicality.
the two best teams in the tournament meet in the final without question. Venezuela's defense has been outstanding all tournament (only two goals against, 1 by PK, 1 in the dying minutes of ET) but I dare say they haven't faced an offense like England's who will definitely test how good that defense is. Exciting midfield battle between Cook and Herrera/Lucena. Venezuela's attack relies heavily on their wingers (Peñaranda/Cordova) but I don't know much about England's defense and how they match. Can someone confirm for me whether Lookman plays on the left side? If so I'm eager to watch him go against Ronald Hernandez who has had a hell of a tournament at RB although he struggled at times against Uruguay.
Jake Livermore starting tonight!. Good luck Jake :DHe is playing well some lovely passes and some good tackling.
He is playing well some lovely passes and some good tackling.
Unlucky with a shot.Lots of armchair fans on Facebook saying 'why is Livermore playing'. >:(Lol he is the best player on the pitch! And that's not being biased!
2-1! Could Hart done any better with the free kicks!
Fair play Scotland gave it a good go but didn't win just like Corbyn :D.
Those last few minutes is what footballs all about. Time for a new England number one, a good goalkeeper would have saved at least one of them free kicks.
Possible new employers of Hart looking on wouldnt have been too impressed!
Teressa May out pulis out Southgate out
Farage in that was so like watching the rubbish we have seen the last two years at the shrine
pity we have no Albion players in the team.Kit man Pat is out there with them and been showing his Albion flag at every game
I agree I think Hart is looking very poor at the min.
Forster should come in for him
I was there right behind the goal and I have seen the replays and I still think few people are being harsh on Hart. Two decent free kicks and it would have taken two massive saves to get to them.
what a breath of fresh air watching them under 20 footballers yesterday. still shooting at goal right to the death.Yeah, fantastic performance, a pleasure to watch(don't get chance to say that much these days!)
As far as the other england team goes its time to drop Hart
Kit man Pat is out there with them and been showing his Albion flag at every game
Anyone watching the game tonight? Rumours of Stones in midfield ???
Is Southgate the man to lead England to world cup glory? Not so sure myself, think he needs time though.no chance of any glory for England that I can see. I reckon we will be looking for another manager after next years world cup.
Is Southgate the man to lead England to world cup glory? Not so sure myself, think he needs time though.
3-0 and into the semi finals.
Demarai Gray looked impressive.
U21s lost to Germany on penalties. again. >:(
U21s lost to Germany on penalties. again. >:(
I thought the England set up and possession was very similar to a TP team. Left Abraham up front feeding off scraps.......
I thought the England set up and possession was very similar to a TP team. Left Abraham up front feeding off scraps.......lol really,I read the article about how Boothroyd has evolved/transformed his game since his Watford days,looks like that went out the window.
lol really,I read the article about how Boothroyd has evolved/transformed his game since his Watford days,looks like that went out the window.
Still a good effort to make the Semi's,few years ago the experts was predicting doom and gloom about the kids coming through.We seem to be on the right path.
congrats to the U19s reaching the euro final where they will play Portugal.Article with Keith Downing talking about the U19s.
Not that bad is he that Keith Downing? Proved a lot of the know it alls wrong. Did an excellent job here.
England seniors are dog turd and always will be at tournaments. Southgate should have the balls to call the entire under 19 squad up for the world cup. We can't do any worse than fail at the first hurdle which we will anyway.
england women won 2-0 with
22% possession
2 shots on target
1 corner.
Pulisball is catching on ;)
Pulisball is the future.
england women won 2-0 with
22% possession
2 shots on target
1 corner.
Pulisball is catching on ;)
From what I watched there were a lot of 'direct' passes from England and a lot of 'possession without penetration' from Spain. It really was like watching us.That was just what I thought whilst watching. As you say Spain for all their possession never troubled the keeper.
and a clear handball
and a clear handballwas it?
england women won 2-0 with
22% possession
2 shots on target
1 corner.
Pulisball is catching on ;)
England Ladies won 2-1 and are top of their group.
Will play the French on the 30th.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/womens-european-championship/scores-fixtures
0-1 just as I posted that. They have started much better to be fair. England look a bit like West brom against the bigger teams
hard luck ladies, errors at the back and lacklustre up top.Do you mean "Pulis football"?
sounds familiar.
If Jake Livermore is an international player then so am I.
Mr Rooney retires from international footballCode for Gareth don't want me
Legend of the English game
And I hate this bashing of him, comments like above are ridiculous in my honest...remind me again how many goals he has scored for England??
Good luck to him England will miss players of his quality and experience
We will have to find someone else to start scoring regular goals against Macedonia and Lithuania in the qualifiers.
He was fine up until the point we played against anyone remotely decent.
He stole a living at Man Utd for the last 3 years as well.
Chalobah in he England team after 2 premier league appearances with Swansea. I get that a large part of his selection will be down to his time playing for England at age levels but it still feels a bit rushed.
same old same old. hart starts for england and we are playing Malta ffs. southgate for me has to be the most flat uninspiring coach we have had.
Did you watch the Stoke match last week? If so, you would have seen how many times Butland dropped the ball.
Give Heaton ago then, its malta we are playing. how many goals as hart conceeded so far this season and his performance against scotland was dire
I personally don't believe you should "give players a go" in competitive fixtures, look at Belgium last night for example. We have a huge game on Monday, they need to play the strongest team in both games.I had to dig past all the transfer fallout, flippin heck 9-0! Lukaku & Meunier hat tricks.
Plus, Heaton is older, and not as good. If you were talking about someone like Pickford I could maybe get your point. There is a reason why Heaton has played most of the last 10 years in the lower leagues, and why Hart has been playing in the champions league and winning titles.
Not sure how Southgate can stand there and say "Hart is our best keeper" with a straight face.
Dreadful from start to finish.Our bloke did alright though,motm
We'll stick a few past them second half, just one of those halves. Malta difficult to break down. Livermore has done alright.
Our bloke did alright though,motm
Arr, I have been genuinely impressed by Livermore. Should play instead of Henderson and stick another attacker on.Didn't watch the match as I've just got in. but read the report by Matt Stead from Football 365 and his comment about Livermore was
Didn't watch the match as I've just got in. but read the report by Matt Stead from Football 365 and his comment about Livermore was
"No shots, no chances created, no tackles, one dribble, two fouls. Tony Pulis will be damn proud."
Seems at odds with some of the comments from our own fans. Anyone know this journalist? Seems to have a bit of an agenda.
His was the ball that Alli picked up before running in circles and passing to Kane for the first goal. Without Jake the ball wouldn't have got in their box so hardly fair to say he didn't contribute.exactly,didnt he make the pass to the assist for the second too? done well enough to start again on monday
Good scorline but the performance was whats the term, paint drying. god football in general is so boring right now
When was the last time you enjoyed a football match? ;D
Southgate says he wants England to excite the fans tonight.
Walker should have seen red there. Shocking first 45.and the ref thought he got the ball. :o
and the ref thought he got the ball. :o
Albion 2 checks 0. Brunt and Evans for Northern Ireland
What was the point of bringing on Livermore :oTP's not the only one who knows how to waste time.
Delli Alli so poor at this standardAnd there was me thinking he had done well overall 😮
And there was me thinking he had done well overall 😮
Really? He's dreadful mate.
I never know if you are being sarcastic or not, I take it that was tongue in cheek-correct?
Really? He's dreadful mate.
Really? He's dreadful mate.
i put a dam sight more effort into lifting his finger thats for sure
Really?
Where did you put it :o ?
Too much tippy tappy and no penetration. Get it in the bloody box and do something with it.Are you being serious? That's the same as we play rubbish!
I would love to see Pulis manager of England one day, he would soon sort this lot out.
Must be the worst England team ever to set foot on Wembley, no desire, no skill, no heart.
I have seen better defending from 10yr olds than some of that on show, we will be a complete embarrassment in Russia .
The problem with England is we are now obsessed with trying to play possession football like Spain because we think that's the way to progress. Rubbish. The players are used to the quick tempo of the Premier League we should not be playing football at a snail's pace we should be direct with the likes of Sterling, Rashford and Ali running at defenders. Not convinced by Southgate.
Been saying this for years fella
We try and adopt a continental approach that European teams have honed over the years whereas we look better playing 100mph football I call it
I don’t get why we’re trying to play teams at their own game when we have our own which is massively effective. It’s the reason we dont compete at European level in club football anymore either we’ve lost our identity
Are you being serious? That's the same as we play rubbish!
Watched the Northern Ireland V Germany game as it was live on German Tv (had a few days in Berlin). Couldn't believe how similar N.I. are to ourselves, sideways; backwards passing followed by a launched long ball which inevitable gives possession back to the opposition.
Brunt played okay at left back, McAuley also okay, Evans was mostly good but made a massive error for the 3rd German goal just a headed "clearance" that went across goal straight to the back post for Kimmich to volley in, not sure what he was trying to do.
So many deep-rooted problems with England. I’ll name a few.Wasn’t Dan the Man recruited to iron out these problems?
1. Youth team coaches overall are poor. So these kids are brought up as athletes playing the long ball, instead of an emphasis on skill such as Brazil/Spain.
2. Playing in club teams full of foreigners who are better players. Therefore brutally exposed in an England shirt.
3. Are generally less bright than European counterparts so cannot think on their feet during games and switch tactically.
4. Do not play abroad as a footballing finishing school therefore are not well rounded footballers.
5. Overpaid lazy can’t think on their feet so crumble in a pressure situation.
6. Always a clique present so players from lesser clubs are treated with a lack of respect.
7. Managers are generally yes men and lack a ruthless edge with selection.
8. Fans overhype the players making them believe they’re better than they are.
Until the FA stand up and be counted then nothing will change.
So many deep-rooted problems with England. I’ll name a few.
1. Youth team coaches overall are poor. So these kids are brought up as athletes playing the long ball, instead of an emphasis on skill such as Brazil/Spain.
2. Playing in club teams full of foreigners who are better players. Therefore brutally exposed in an England shirt.
3. Are generally less bright than European counterparts so cannot think on their feet during games and switch tactically.
4. Do not play abroad as a footballing finishing school therefore are not well rounded footballers.
5. Overpaid lazy can’t think on their feet so crumble in a pressure situation.
6. Always a clique present so players from lesser clubs are treated with a lack of respect.
7. Managers are generally yes men and lack a ruthless edge with selection.
8. Fans overhype the players making them believe they’re better than they are.
Until the FA stand up and be counted then nothing will change.
Didn't the U19's win the European Championships and the U20's the World Cup this year? Seems like the youth players are doing okay.
That’s what I thought ???
Didn't the U19's win the European Championships and the U20's the World Cup this year? Seems like the youth players are doing okay.
So many deep-rooted problems with England. I’ll name a few.
1. Youth team coaches overall are poor. So these kids are brought up as athletes playing the long ball, instead of an emphasis on skill such as Brazil/Spain.
2. Playing in club teams full of foreigners who are better players. Therefore brutally exposed in an England shirt.
3. Are generally less bright than European counterparts so cannot think on their feet during games and switch tactically.
4. Do not play abroad as a footballing finishing school therefore are not well rounded footballers.
5. Overpaid lazy can’t think on their feet so crumble in a pressure situation.
6. Always a clique present so players from lesser clubs are treated with a lack of respect.
7. Managers are generally yes men and lack a ruthless edge with selection.
8. Fans overhype the players making them believe they’re better than they are.
Until the FA stand up and be counted then nothing will change.
Southgate said England don't have any big players. Sounds a little crazy, but could we not use half a dozen "top" players and make up the rest from lower teams like in the Championship? Some games call for passion rather than skill. As we know, that's what the lower leagues are all about.
England are just plain dull, surely if we had lower players it would shake the whole system up a bit and make the games more exciting. I still don't quite know why I watch England play.
I always look forward to an England game.
Why do they always disappoint?
Its excruciating to watch,remind you of anyone?
But England had lots of possession, it therefor must be great to watch. :-X
Ok fair enough credit where it’s due. What about the other 7 statements.
will we take our 2017 world cup winners into the national full side
I meant the performances long term or will they just fizzle out
Good game this. Livermore having a decent game.
We agree
Good game this. Livermore having a decent game.
He did have a good game.now now, you have to have a player in front of you to pass it forward
I have to say though I was puzzled by some of his play as quite a few times he kicked the ball in a direction I've rarely seen him do for us..the ball actually went forward and to a player with the same shirt on as him...Pulis won't be happy about that!
I thought it was an OK performance nothing better than that.Livermore isn't good enough!? So you know better than the England manager then.
Most impressive for me was Jordan Pickford. I thought he looked well at home in international football. He made a couple of crucial saves, looked very confident, his distribution was excellent. I think England have found their goalkeeper I'd make him number one now.
We're OK in full back positions, Trippier, Walker, Rose all good enough. Luke Shaw is our most talented left back but he's disappeared without trace, it'd be nice if somehow we could get him back for the World Cup but it doesn't look like it will happen.
Jones, Stones, Maguire all did well. They can play out from the back particularly Stones and Maguire. Joe Gomez isn't good enough though he looks a weak link for Liverpool to me too.
Loftus Cheek had a good game. Some of the press going OTT as usual but that's what they do. He deserves a place in the final squad. Dier is a must and I'd have Harry Winks in there as well. Livermore isn't good enough. The likes of Lallana and Alli will hopefully be back from injury.
Harry Kane is a shoe in upfront. Who plays alongside him if we go that way I don't know. Vardy will be in the final squad I'm sure, Rashford also. Tammy Abraham looked out of his depth to me last night. Lingard isn't good enough either.
We have the nucleus of a good side / squad but we're not totally there yet.
Not quite sure why there seems to be so much hype surrounding us drawing the two games 0-0 at home and being dominated in both for the most part. The press seem to be lauding Southgate as the second coming, whereas you know that come the tournament, both Germany and Brazil would move up a gear or two to ensure they won the game. We beat Germany 3-2 in Germany under Roy in what was a truly superb performance and yet we meekly went out to Iceland come the tournament, let's just temper the expectations somewhat.
Very impressed by England tonight.
We agree on something... (best go see a doctor tomorrow :o).
Also happy to see the younger players given a chance... with most managers they will pick the team based on favourites and 'big name's, atleast now the team is being picked based on form/potential... it's refreshing to see and hopefully some of the younger guys have done enough to impress Southgate.
Nah ! you don't win nothing with kids !!, u daft or summat ? :o
Well England don't win anything with older experienced players either so what difference does it make ::)
You could pay me to go there ;D .
I think we can get to the semis in Russia if we dont suffer major injuries
Not much track record as a coach and apparently doesn't know much about the women's game. Jobs for the boys, from the look of it.
Sturridge, Jay rod partnership in RussiaThe last England front -line partnership supplied by the Albion was ?????
Whos going to watch England in the world cup finals in Russia. Rather you than me
Whos going to watch England in the world cup finals in Russia. Rather you than meNot the Royal Family :D I reckon Harry tried to bump off that Russian, knowing of the repercussion.
I can see us boycotting the world cup with all that's going on
I’ve got tickets for the Belgium game in Kaliningrad, staying in Gdansk in Poland and travelling over for the gameLee, I am doing Gdańsk and getting ferry to Kaliningrad, how did you get your tickets? Are you England supporters member?
I am but only have 28 caps so never managed to get them through ESTC as the caps cut off was around 40 due to the ridiculously low allocation but managed to get them off the FIFA website on Tuesday.cheers, was going to try through Polish FA, but may have to be a bit more creative than that. Here is hoping!
Having an allocation of around 1600 for a World Cup match is a joke, although the only ticket I didn’t get for the Euros through ESTC was Wales which we again managed to pick up off UEFA and if this game is anywhere near as good as that we should be in for a cracker (doubt it very much though)
Livermore in the England squad! :o
Southgate has not got a clue
Beyond belief. He shouldn't be in our side at the bottom of the Premier League let alone the international squad. What is the bloke watching?
The fact that the likes of Livermore and Hart are anywhere near the England squad says a lot about both Southgate and the pool of "talent" available.
Livermore's done O.K in an England shirt when selected.
There, I've said it....... ;D .
Is he related to that Livermore chap that strolls around for us occasionally?
As much as I would like to go to a world cup, I would never in a million years think of going to Russia or Qatar. The Russians will be looking for fights and the English will bear the brunt of it I am sure. I said to my brother that we should allow all the banned hooligans a one free pass to travel to Russia, just to even the odds. (Said in jest obviously)
As for Qatar, it's just been humanitarian atrocity after another coupled with the disgraceful way in which they were given the world cup in the first place.
And to think Qatar won it over Australia.
Ah but look at what Oz has done to the Aborigines and the Oz camps for illegal immigrants..... I can hear it now,
I'm sure if you wanted to be offended by things Australian you could be !
Whereas our nice Qatari friends, ;)
We're probably the worst in the world for that sort of thing if you go back far enough :D
But in all seriousness, a World Cup in Australia would have been decent. A country that is sport mad where the football fanbase could be developed, and it would be friendly to people of all backgrounds.
As much as I would like to go to a world cup, I would never in a million years think of going to Russia or Qatar. The Russians will be looking for fights and the English will bear the brunt of it I am sure. I said to my brother that we should allow all the banned hooligans a one free pass to travel to Russia, just to even the odds. (Said in jest obviously)Why in jest?
As for Qatar, it's just been humanitarian atrocity after another coupled with the disgraceful way in which they were given the world cup in the first place.
Many argue that sport and politics shouldn’t be mixed. The World Cup was ‘won’ (with brown envelopes?) by Russia specifically for political purposes. Any country with sporting morals should not go to the World Cup. How can you play sport against a country that utilises state sponsored cheating (doping), let alone one that bombs civilians, women and children included, supports a regime that does the same with the addition of using poison gas, and apparently is quite happy to release a lethal military nerve agent in a foreign country? We’re I an England footballer, I would not want any involvement whatsoever in giving legitimacy to Russia and their so-called ‘sport’.
Many argue that sport and politics shouldn’t be mixed. The World Cup was ‘won’ (with brown envelopes?) by Russia specifically for political purposes. Any country with sporting morals should not go to the World Cup. How can you play sport against a country that utilises state sponsored cheating (doping), let alone one that bombs civilians, women and children included, supports a regime that does the same with the addition of using poison gas, and apparently is quite happy to release a lethal military nerve agent in a foreign country? We’re I an England footballer, I would not want any involvement whatsoever in giving legitimacy to Russia and their so-called ‘sport’.
I'm hoping to go to watch a game of football and enjoy the atmosphere with a load of like minded folks.
There is far too much in this world for me to make a personal stand against,
Lacking moral fibre - yes,
Going to have a great time, - thats the plan!
Each to thier own,
As an aside, I would be interested to know how you can support a club which has a history of Drunk & drug driving (Saido / Hughes), Quenelles (anelka), Taxi theft (the "boys') , photos of sexual acts (Hoult) burning money wiped on arses (ridgewell) Drugs (willie alledgedly, Bednar), shall i go on? ......
Where you draw the line of indignation and resultant action is a personal thing,
I don't like the idea of criticising others because their views don't align with my moral compass but as I say each to their own.
cheers, was going to try through Polish FA, but may have to be a bit more creative than that. Here is hoping!
Agree the 1600 is pathetic especially given the location.
I'm hoping to go to watch a game of football and enjoy the atmosphere with a load of like minded folks.
There is far too much in this world for me to make a personal stand against,
Lacking moral fibre - yes,
Going to have a great time, - thats the plan!
Each to thier own,
As an aside, I would be interested to know how you can support a club which has a history of Drunk & drug driving (Saido / Hughes), Quenelles (anelka), Taxi theft (the "boys') , photos of sexual acts (Hoult) burning money wiped on arses (ridgewell) Drugs (willie alledgedly, Bednar), shall i go on? ......
Where you draw the line of indignation and resultant action is a personal thing,
I don't like the idea of criticising others because their views don't align with my moral compass but as I say each to their own.
So you’re happy to go and ‘enjoy’ a so-called sporting tournament in a murderous regime that Russia is now? Russia should be shunned by all sports and I cannot understand anyone going there given the Russians complete disregard for human life. Well done, have a good time while women and children amongst many innocent civilians are bombed and gassed into oblivion.
FIFA should grow some and cancel the whole charade.
So you’re happy to go and ‘enjoy’ a so-called sporting tournament in a murderous regime that Russia is now? Russia should be shunned by all sports and I cannot understand anyone going there given the Russians complete disregard for human life. Well done, have a good time while women and children amongst many innocent civilians are bombed and gassed into oblivion.
FIFA should grow some and cancel the whole charade.
I will go and enjoy myself (fingers crossed), not a fan of the Russian regime at all obviously but the example you have given above could be be describing the country we live in. Not as if the UK haven’t gone and bombed countries in the last 20 years and killed thousands of innocent people. Again I’m not saying it’s right at all but bit hypocritical coming from someone from the UKI thought i had logged onto the England football team thread, obviously not.
I thought i had logged onto the England football team thread, obviously not.
Leave the politics please
If only there was a sub forum we could discuss politics ;)
Fair play to anyone going over there, I would not take the risk especially with the limited consular access we now have due to half the embassy being kicked out.
I didn't feel there was much to comment on, really.
That has to be the worst Dutch team I have ever seen. I will wait until we face a challenge before judging where we are at.
I'd like to see us against a team who is good at holding onto possession and the game is at a slower pace - Italy!8 years on from that debacle and he still earns a living in the English premier league, what does that tell you about "the best league in the world"
No team progresses too far in the WC without one or two of
Great Keeper
Great Defence
Midfielders who can keep possession
A goalscorer(s) who can make something out of nothing in a tight spot
By my reckoning, we have one (goalscorer) so I'd be happy with quarters this WC! I do think 352 suits us better though as it helps us to keep the ball and not bomb forward losing it and being exposed and high up the pitch which just doesn't suit English teams over the years (2010 v Germany springs to mind and Gareth Barry - shudder)?
Should England boycott the World Cup?Read past the typical sensational headline. It’s only an option at the moment. Anyway, I should imagine The FA are financially committed to appear. My personal opinion? Keep sport out of politics. Let the diplomats sort it out.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5547735/Australia-BOYCOTT-2018-Soccer-World-Cup.html?ito=social-facebook
Haha. Tarkowski stood on his foot. Clear foul accidental or not.
I'm with you and called it before the VAR. With VAR I thought it was even more apparent. He didn't just stand on him, he angled his foot in. Definite penalty.
See even with VAR you're going to get controversy. I disagree with you I don't think it was a penalty and I don't think he angled his foot in. When people run they don't run in an exact straight line it looked like an accident to me and to give that as a penalty I think is extremely soft.
Why have VAR when you still get controversy? I wouldn't call last nights incident clear and obvious either.
Not sure I like VAR bur it's here to stay so I suppose I'd better get used to it. :(
I see we don't have any referee representatives at the world cup.
Obviously the panel must have been watching these muppets at our games.
I see we don't have any referee representatives at the world cup.
Obviously the panel must have been watching these muppets at our games.
its bad that you dont have a standby ref incase of the situation thats arisen with Clattenburg occurs
There should be a British ref at the tournament
We put forward 6 referees. None were selected.
I find it far crazier that Livermore is being considered in place of Shelvey. He’s such a dynamic player and has that “pizazz†that England are really lacking. He would be the next man on the plan after Kane and Sterling for me. Dier and Henderson currently do what Livermore does (to a much better standard), so why is he going?
Mind boggling and gutting for Shelvey – more than deserves a place.
Kane, Vardy and Rashford are a good set of strikers to choose from...on paper.Don't forget Sterling, 18 goals this season.
Happy Loftus-Cheek made it, very impressive this season.
Good to see Joe Hart not being picked. Thought he would get in on his reputation but has gone backwards rather than forwards after his dreadful performances in Euro 2016.
I find it far crazier that Livermore is being considered in place of Shelvey. He’s such a dynamic player and has that “pizazz†that England are really lacking. He would be the next man on the plan after Kane and Sterling for me. Dier and Henderson currently do what Livermore does (to a much better standard), so why is he going?
Mind boggling and gutting for Shelvey – more than deserves a place.
Looks a very unbalanced squad to me. 7 or 8 players that have played f/b for both club and country , why no Shelvey in m/f has been outstanding this season , a much better and more creative passer of the ball thsn either Dier or Henderson and the choice of Welbeck ahead of an out and out goalscorer like Defoe makes no sense at all to me
Hilarious how nobody wanted Shelvey before the March friendlies and in the 7 game since he's become Pirlo apparently. Bang average player who's rightfully nowhere near the squad. I've yet to see England at a tournament and think "what we really need here is someone playing more Hollywood passes"
Absolutely nothing wrong with looking at recent form. The fact he is in the form of his life immediately before a major tournament is the main reason he should have been brought in. We need players that are in form and needing to perform for absolutely max 7 games (if you get to the final).
Not sure any players (apart from arguably Kane and Sterling) have been consistently top of their game for the whole season.
Shelvey is a really good player. Should've been in the squad.
Ashley Young! seriously.
The major emission for me is Wilshere. Ignore the injury issues and the fact that it is the fashionable thing to hate him, he's still the most talented midfielder we have at driving forward from deep positions. I'd have taken him and possibly Lallana if fit ahead of Delph and Welbeck. Other than that, I'm reasonably happy with the squad. The overload of right backs indicates we'll be playing a 343 with Walker at centre back.
Think I'm edging towards the following at the moment:Pickford
Walker - Cahill - Jones
Trippier - Henderson - Lingard - Rose
Sterling - Kane - Alli
Really struggling with the centre backs though as we are so poor in that area and there is not much between Jones, Stones, Maguire and Cahill. Gone for Lingard in the centre because Dier would be completely pointless against Tunisia and Panama, I'd even consider dropping Alli further back and putting Rashford on the left as we'll be spending all game trying to break them down.
Really looking forward to the World Cup, going to be a hectic and exciting summer when coupled with the Albion re-build and the extremely tight transfer window.
The midfield is lot like breadsticks with no dip.
Ryan Sessengon should have gone.
Jonjo Shelvey is a victim of his own making. He's had a great season but is simply too prone to a moment of rashness and his ability doesn't make up for that. Him or Wilshere should have gone though. Alli will have the weight of England on his shoulders in that England midfield.
Danny Welbeck... Plays well for England is his only defence. An injury prone striker who cant finish... makes sense to take him.
Team I like but jones out Harry mac from Leicester in. Jones is a sick note he's the new Ledley king
Also surprised Henderson has made the team. Milner has been far better for Liverpool this season.
Milneris retired from internationals
It'll just sum England up to take the Premier League winning RWB to the World Cup and play him as a CB. Alli can't replicate his Spurs form at International level because he is utilised in a totally different manner courtesy of a completely different system.
Pickford
Stones - Cahill - Maguire
Walker - Dier - Wilshere - Rose
Alli
Sterling - Kane
Something like that would have been a far more interesting proposition than anything England can field this summer.
Gambia starts for Costs Rica :o
What about Gamboa? ;DHadn't got me glasses on! ;)
Hope to see this on Monday;
Pickford
Maguire stones Cahill
Walker. Henderson Rose
Alli Lingard
Sterling
Kane
Don’t get putting walker centre back as he’s the best right wing back in the world in my opinion. Don’t like lingard but he’s effective especially against smaller teams. We also need a big World Cup from Kane, if that happens then who knows!
Sterling might have had the season of his life but he's only scored a couple of goals in twenty odd appearances for England.
I would prefer Rashford if he doesn't play in the first game and Sterling doesn't score again,Rashford will replace him.
First two there wont be many, last game I think there will be 8-10k.
Can't see there being any trouble and this is from someone who was in Marseille.
Anyone elses sound shot?Pardon ?😂
Pardon ?😂
Mines fine
1-1. does anyone think that penalty award was a bit dodgy.
1-1. does anyone think that penalty award was a bit dodgy.A lot dodgy! and if that's a penalty what about the one on Kane!?
Never a penalty in a million years, give a penalty for a bloke running into an arm you'll be giving them all game. Walkers arm maybe should not have been there but he did not elbow the bloke or strike out with any intent
I'd get rashford on for alli who has faded out the game.
refs a joke.
Kept goin to the end. Big harry Kane stepping up again.
Thought Loftus-Cheek looked dangerous, would start him Sunday over Alli.
Rashford for Sterling
Loftus Cheek for Alli
Rose for Young
Possibly Cahill for Maguire but I like Maguire he is a presence at set pieces
Make those changes and I think we will go quite far
4-0! Absolute cakewalk at the moment.
This is why we’ll never win a tournament. We had a chance to get ahead of Belgium with a double digit scoreline, but chose to fanny around in the second half, and even give them their first World Cup goal. It’s so frustrating supporting England.The game was won it was baking hot and I dont blame them for slowing it down in the 2nd half, some people are never happy though. I backed us to win it before a ball was kicked and i still think we will.
This is why we’ll never win a tournament. We had a chance to get ahead of Belgium with a double digit scoreline, but chose to fanny around in the second half, and even give them their first World Cup goal. It’s so frustrating supporting England.
Only england fans could look for negatives after a 6-1 win ??? ???
Buzzing to get over there now on Wednesday
This is why we’ll never win a tournament. We had a chance to get ahead of Belgium with a double digit scoreline, but chose to fanny around in the second half, and even give them their first World Cup goal. It’s so frustrating supporting England.
If you watched Colombia this evening then no way would I fancy us against them.
England at 5-0 had a great chance to send a message to the rest if the world by winning 8-0 or better. Instead they took their foot off the pedal and somehow conceded.
Just think what Germany would have done in that same position. We have a good team but once again lack ruthlessness.
To be honest I reckon Belgium will beat us.
If you watched Colombia this evening then no way would I fancy us against them.
England at 5-0 had a great chance to send a message to the rest if the world by winning 8-0 or better. Instead they took their foot off the pedal and somehow conceded.
Just think what Germany would have done in that same position. We have a good team but once again lack ruthlessness.
To be honest I reckon Belgium will beat us.
:D :D
Tickled me that has.
I think it made sense 5 nil up at half time,in 30 degrees heat ,they won't lose the game so make some changes and see the game out,well played I say.
I thought Columbia were how Brazil are expected to play,very good,glad Poland are out,clueless.
This site makes me smile at times, folk on here saying that they don’t want to meet Columbia in the next round! Who would you prefer? Germany? Brazil? Spain? It’s Columbia for heavens sake... they played well yesterday against a very very poor Polish team. My Sunday league side could have beaten them.
If you don’t want to play Columbia then we may as well come home... but thanks for the laughs😂
I think your being a little disrespectful to Columbia mate.
I thought they were skillful,energetic and clever the way they beat Poland, who were poor admittedly.
They have some very good players who will be a problem for any team.
Dark horses for me.
No I am not - Columbia played well and were great on the counter. They are a good side and put a real shift in but that was a must win for both sides. I don't think that I have said anywhere that they were no good or been disrespectful in any way, but there are other teams in this competition much better than Columbia, and we are one of them.
If you watched Colombia this evening then no way would I fancy us against them.
England at 5-0 had a great chance to send a message to the rest if the world by winning 8-0 or better. Instead they took their foot off the pedal and somehow conceded.
Just think what Germany would have done in that same position. We have a good team but once again lack ruthlessness.
To be honest I reckon Belgium will beat us.
Brazil 1 Germany 7 World Cup SF 2014.
I noticed they beat San Marino 13-0 too sometime back.
Germany 2 - 1 Saudi Arabia (8th June 2018)
A fantastic result that, which ended a run of 5 games without a win including losing to Austria. Add to that their defeat to Mexico in which they were taken apart and practically a last kick win over Sweden?
English fans are mad ;D
Colombia - Good on the counter? They bossed the midfield. Cuadrado, James and Quintero would walk into our team.
England have gone 8-2 against limited opposition. Poland are better than either Tunisia or Panama.
How are England much better? I would say England and Belgium would be desperate to play Japan.
Not mad just realistic after the so-called golden generation.
Disagree. Can't say Germany would've done a better job when they look a shadow of their past selves and their results and performances prove as such.
I don't wish to be pedantic or picky but,why is the national anthem played before an England game?
England is a part of being national arnt we?
Scotland wouldn't play it would they?
Why don't we have our own?
Can you guys put me straight on this one please.
i agree. land of hope and glory etc etc
Would've preferred Rose for Young,how does he get into the team ?
Can't defend and always has to cut back,
Henderson doing his best Neymar impression.
Sterling doing a weak Barrios impression.
What! That should have been a red card. Colombia are a nasty bunch of thugs and the ref is too weak to deal with them.
Sorry but England have bottled it there.
We deserved that. Besides the weak referee and the 2 or 3 clear red cards, we were the only team trying to play football. Feared the worse when Southgate reverted to type with Dier substitution but turned out to be a masterstroke ;) who better than a German to take the 5th penalty?bang on jacko. thought it was a negative move that gave Colombia confidence .
If only we had a really good passer of the ball in our midfield we would walk this. Despite all our running and pressing we create very little from open play. Can't see that Sweden will have enough to beat us
If only we had a really good passer of the ball in our midfield we would walk this. Despite all our running and pressing we create very little from open play. Can't see that Sweden will have enough to beat usAgreed...We do need a midfield who will tackle and go for the ball.
Still tje same old problem for me. We have a lack of creative players in our midfield due to a failure in our youth development.
We press well and have so much pace in the side nowadays which is great, but the likes of Sterling and Alli aren't creative, they just have great movement and are dangerous when played in front of a pkay maker (like at club level). For England, their is no creativity behind the front 3, and so it falls on them to add it and this is where they become exposed.
Lets hope the new guard just coming through have the dynamism we need.
Until then, lets gope we can set piece our way to glory.
Still tje same old problem for me. We have a lack of creative players in our midfield due to a failure in our youth development.
We press well and have so much pace in the side nowadays which is great, but the likes of Sterling and Alli aren't creative, they just have great movement and are dangerous when played in front of a pkay maker (like at club level). For England, their is no creativity behind the front 3, and so it falls on them to add it and this is where they become exposed.
Lets hope the new guard just coming through have the dynamism we need.
Until then, lets gope we can set piece our way to glory.
The concern would be if at any point England fall behind and are struggling. There is none of that creativity on the bench. Someone like Wilshere would have given that sense of maverick ability who could be a gamechanger. Had he gone instead of Welbeck, that bench looks a lot stronger if at any point England were to be a goal behind.I don't really rate or like Wilshere
Do you want to play a skillful side (Croatia) or a side with partizan supporters (Russia)?didnt think either were anything special, confident England can beat Croatia.
didnt think either were anything special, confident England can beat Croatia.Thank God, the people of Salisbury have had enough..
England fans taking the headlines away from the football today. Some very poor scenes.
Video on Twitter shows 2 English fans (allegedly) jumping on the roof and rear of a Russian police vehicle. One lad jumps off and mingles with the crowd. The other, foolishly, stands and taunts the officers who oblige him, by giving him a real beating with there battens. And he deserved every stroke and whack he received!It’s probably the video from last week of a Russian fan. He had no colours on , so any countries fans can be accused.
It’s probably the video from last week of a Russian fan. He had no colours on , so any countries fans can be accused.
Are we allowed to suggest that our defence might be a bit susceptible now? Or do we still have to happy clap because we beat Panama?
Don't get me wrong, the boys have done well and it's been a good lift for the country.
However, we only played 2 good teams (one without their best player) and only beat one on penalties, and lost the other one.
Can't believe the criticism on here,a young team,not experienced eneogh yet,its not their fault who they play,well done I for one feel proud.
Can't understand how Young and Sterling get into the team,did Deli Ali play tonight? He looked exhausted not fit shouldn't have played but hey ho,bring on the euros!
After our initial spell we began to lose the midfield and as soon as that happens you lose the game. South gate has done well but throughout the tournament his substations let him down. Game crying out for lotus cheek in cm to add some steel and despite 4 subs of which did very little to influence the game we still found ourselves being over run in midfield and eventually we lost. Wasn't going to be a game where pretty football won it was a game where the team with the biggest balls collectively would win- that's what happened.
Yes we have done well but in the game that counted the manger fouled up
I've avoided posting in here because I never felt that our performances actually warranted all of the hype and hysteria, stoked up at every opportunity by the media, that we've been seeing. Tonight, our goal was the only shot we had on target and I can't recall Kane, Rashford or Vardy having a shot of any description. Although we looked in control at half-time, it was downhill all the way from there.Future years? This was the new generation. We’ll never get an easier route again.
We got good results, but I thought we rarely looked very impressive in getting them. Mostly, I felt it was down to the opposition playing badly, although it's hard to say to what extent their ineptitude could be put down to the way we played. It was a good effort, but we ultimately didn't have the star quality to go all the way.
The positive is that the squad is young and will improve, so we should be more of a force in future years.
Whilst I agree with your comments about their midfield controlled the game, that problem came from our wingbacks.
Young was out on his feet ages before he came off, trippier you could tell had been carrying a knock. Our fullbacks dropped too deep becoming a back 5, which in turn isolated our middle 3.
Personally we should have brought Rose on earlier, introduced either Alexander Arnold or popped Dier in the back 3 and moved Walker out wide. Then he needed to take Alli off for Loftus-Cheek. I genuinely forgot Dele was still on the pitch for large parts.
One of the best oxymorons I've seen on here. Well done mate.
It's a fun bunch on here, my god!
In the end beaten by a better side, a side with European Cup winners, a side arguably underrated by a lot of people, filled with players in their peak playing in top leagues across Europe. Modric and Rakitic between them have won five European Cups in the last five seasons.
England have given us one of the most entertaining months of watching football I can remember. Southgate has transformed a side into one that people actually like, and one that is competitive. Remember at the start of June when many of us said we would be happy to get out of the group?
Alli and Lingard didn't have the worst games, they were up against two serious performers - probably the most underrated central midfield partnership in the world. They will give Pogba and Kante a real test on Sunday. Sterling ran them ragged for 45 minutes, we lost grip completely when he went off. He made clever runs, he linked play well, he would have scored if Kane had of squared the ball. If you can't see what the kid offers then football probably isn't for you. Walker was caught out for the goal but this is what, his ninth game as a central defender? He will learn, they all will.
No one likes losing and the better, more complete and more experienced side won - but if you can sit and slag them all off after the graft they've put in and the good times we've all had watching it the last month or so then that's a real shame for you.
At least Brexit is going well...
We said Dave. There comes a time when we just have to enjoy the ride, which is just beginning with this squad and set up hopefully .
It’s coming home sooner or later I bet ya
Looking at it objectively, chances are we will never again end up with a draw as favourable as that so if it was ever going to come home, we had the best opportunity for it to happen in my lifetime and we have blown it.
If we're basing our approach to winning tournaments around not having to play anyone good then we may as well not bother.
Well as we have only played two decent teams in this tournament and lost to them both, it is difficult to do otherwise unless something (i.e. the manager) changes.Columbia are ranked higher than Croatia and Sweden not a that far off while beating France in the qualifiers and Italy in the playoffs,we also matched Belgium in the group and our 2nd team lost to their 2nd team.
Well as we have only played two decent teams in this tournament and lost to them both, it is difficult to do otherwise unless something (i.e. the manager) changes.
Columbia are ranked higher than Croatia and Sweden not a that far off while beating France in the qualifiers and Italy in the playoffs,we also matched Belgium in the group and our 2nd team lost to their 2nd team.
Don’t underestimate the teams we have beaten, they are at this tournament for a reason.
We didn't beat Colombia...it took penalties to decide it in a game whereby their best player didn't feature.
Panama, Saudi Arabia et al were at this tournament. It doesn't mean they are good sides.
Fair enough pal - I've had a great four weeks watching this team, bouncing round pubs with people I've never met because everyone, for the first time in my lifetime is proud of their team. Yeah it'd be nice to have our name on the trophy, one day it will happen but if you can't see any positives in the last month then I feel for you. It's been great fun.
Fair enough pal - I've had a great four weeks watching this team, bouncing round pubs with people I've never met because everyone, for the first time in my lifetime is proud of their team. Yeah it'd be nice to have our name on the trophy, one day it will happen but if you can't see any positives in the last month then I feel for you. It's been great fun.Same here mate, I've loved every minute of this tournament. The way people have come together is testament to the humility and integrity of the squad, they've handled themselves honourably both on and off the field and for the first time in years I actually felt like they deserved to succeed.
At the end of the day England did better than expected so that's something to be happy with.
I think having the so called easy route has backfired and I couldn't see the logic of people wanting England to take that route, as at some point you are going to meet a much better side or a side that can manage a game better which was the case last night. Croatia have players that have played in tournament finals and it showed with how they came back and controlled the game from the 2nd half onwards.
I expect Belgium to be too strong on Saturday and England will end up 4th, but that's still a hell of an achievement for a young inexperienced team playing in it's first tournament.
After our initial spell we began to lose the midfield and as soon as that happens you lose the game. South gate has done well but throughout the tournament his substations let him down. Game crying out for lotus cheek in cm to add some steel and despite 4 subs of which did very little to influence the game we still found ourselves being over run in midfield and eventually we lost. Wasn't going to be a game where pretty football won it was a game where the team with the biggest balls collectively would win- that's what happened.
Yes we have done well but in the game that counted the manger fouled up
I maybe ploughing a lone farrow here but shouldnt the manager be put under scrutiny?
The best opportunity we have had recently or are likely to have for some time to come was blown in a major way.
Poor substitutions and no plan B.
Momentum from group games was lost with wholesale changes against Belgium. Harry Kane was on fire prior to being rested.
There is the potential to achieve something with this squad but it will not be achieved under a manager who talks a good game and always has consistently failed to deliver when it matters. Good managers do not want or need to be the squads best mate.
This tournament will be viewed by some as a success. I just see it as a massive opportunity thrown away.
We'd have beaten France on the break. Tonight we aren't good enough to get that far.That's a pretty bold prediction - France are hardly gung ho, personally I think they are the last team that England would beat on the break.
That's a pretty bold prediction - France are hardly gung ho, personally I think they are the last team that England would beat on the break.
I know us Albion fans are pessimistic but jesus. :PDon't think I'm being pessimistic mate, just saying it as I see it. It's a false dawn. England beat 3 teams we were expected to beat, and lost to one we were ranked above. There wasn't a single result where you could say that they exceeded expectations.
Let's just be thankful that the mood and atmosphere has changed and that we finally have a good amount of decent young potential.
Don't think I'm being pessimistic mate, just saying it as I see it. It's a false dawn. England beat 3 teams we were expected to beat, and lost to one we were ranked above. There wasn't a single result where you could say that they exceeded expectations.
Keepers apart every one from a top 6 club, shows what a stranglehold these clubs have on english football or that GS is not looking outside the top clubs.
Next we know we'll be bemoaning the amount of football the players have to contend with, what with europe and all !
Maguire.
Keepers apart every one from a top 6 club, shows what a stranglehold these clubs have on english football or that GS is not looking outside the top clubs.
Next we know we'll be bemoaning the amount of football the players have to contend with, what with europe and all !
Missed him, exception that proves the rule ! ;)
along with Tarkowski...unless he's moved from Burnley?
Ok, and him, but my point is still valid (almost- ish)
Refuse to back track anymore on this (yet)
Reworded for you ;) .
'Keepers apart every one from a top 6 club apart from those who aren't'...... beep, beep, beep........ ;D .
can i tell you to 'cough on here ;D :-[
You could try but it earned me a yellow card not long back :P ;) .
Ben Chilwell and Demarai Gray called into the first team for the mid week friendly.No you are right Gray is another speed merchant who won't cut it at top international level. England never EVER learn.
Surprised to see Gray get the call up ahead of Maddison. Could be down to him having more experience, however he just seems more of the same - along the lines of a thousand other English speed merchants we have tried for the national team.
Maybe I am being harsh in Gray who could be great in the right system, but would have much prefered Maddison to be called up.
bored even moreso now. can anyone explain what this new competition is. Spain on Friday then Croatia Monday
Fill your boots.
https://www.uefa.com/uefanationsleague/news/newsid=2079553.html
Fill your boots.
https://www.uefa.com/uefanationsleague/news/newsid=2079553.html
Christ only me chatting lol. Speaks volume for the national side Boingboing
brilliant result against spain, really entertaining match to watch and the 1st to beat them on home soil for 38 games according to sky.
Really enjoyed the highlights, good stuff!
Just watched a short video of Sherwood and Saunders debating about the 'Rooney' game.
What are peoples thoughts on the England v USA game this week and Rooney getting another cap as a 'farewell.'
I understand the money raised is going to charity and its to raise the profile in USA further etc etc, but what are your thoughts on him getting another cap.
It hasn't been earnt on merit/form. Could it potentially take away the chance for Callum Wilson to get some international minutes...
I find it bizarre to be honest and a little embarrassing. I get that he has achieved a lot for England in terms of caps and goals but this seems strange to me.
Pretty sure none of the gate receipts are going towards his charity. This shouldn't be an internationally recognised fixture, it's embarrassing.
That's correct, I believe gate receipts etc are going to a charity of FA choice, Rooney will be able to collect for his charity outside of the turnstiles etc or something along those lines.
Which makes the whole thing even more bizarre in my opinion.
Not fantastically bothered about him getting another cap to be honest. This is a meaningless game where the gate receipts are going to charity. If Rooney plays then it will get many extra bums on seats and increase the charity contribution.
We probably need to remember the contribution Wayne has made to English football, both for club and country - a fantastic player in his day and still a force to be reckoned with. A quick check on Wiki tells you that he played for England 119 times and scored 53 goals, which is a phenominal return at that level.
That's correct, I believe gate receipts etc are going to a charity of FA choice, Rooney will be able to collect for his charity outside of the turnstiles etc or something along those lines.
Which makes the whole thing even more bizarre in my opinion.
Previous poster identified that the gate receipts [or a portion of] are going to a charity of their choice - not Rooney's.
It is obvious that the game has been mis badged and someone in the FA has dropped a real clanger here.........if they had said from day 1 that it was a Rooney testermonial, we would have all known before we bought the tickets - or not as the case may be.
Don't agree with this fake cap for Rooney at all.
What's he done to earn this cap?
Fled to USA to play.
An England cap should be earned through hard work and skill not given away,so he can get his 120 cap?
Its cheapened the shirt,what is the FA thinking?
We look forward with our team not back,most of his play for 119 caps hasn't been up to scratch for me anyway.
Overated player,the only reward he wants is money.
Sorry,bad decision.
Brilliant result today v Croatia
Deserved the win I reckon, great resilience and strength of character to come back from 1 down
Oh I see another Rooney bashing again..
Overrated :o :-X what a load of codswallop
Fair play to the FA on this gesture, the man deserves all the plaudits for me...class player
Switzerland knocking Belgium is a huge help also. If the Dutch could qualify over the French there would be a lot of arguments to say we would be favourites.
yawn, anybody doing the England games coming up
Strange but scary didn't think we player particularly well especially first 10 mins second half. Sancho looks a prospect but centre backs still a concern as Walker always has a mistake in him
This for me is the biggest concern for crunch games against the best teams - I feel like he would be very liable to making a very costly mistake.
Same goes for Stones (as he did in the WC semi-final).
We do look good going forward but in all honesty our weaknesses won't be tested in this qualifying group.
half time of the Montenegro game and its like watching a Mowbray team against a poor side, look great going forwards but the defence is scarily exposed by lack of defensive midfield.
Don't think they've been that bad, CHO poor for the goal but you have to accept that with those 3 attacking players.
anybody off to watch england in Portugal
I'm off next Saturday for hopefully the final :-X I know many Albion heading out there though for Semi.
Game on Sky against Holland tomorrow
Game on Sky against Holland tomorrowAh well, highlights on ITV at 22.45 for me then ...
Ah well, highlights on ITV at 22.45 for me then ...
That's what I thought - have Darren and Jones been coaching our defenders!!Everyone's at it though, Holland's goal came from a defensive cock up. It's like it's suddenly the only way to play the game. Bonkers.The amount of times the ball was played to Pickford while he was stood on his goal line was ridiculous.
Like Albion, England struggled to hold the ball in the midfield which meant the defenders had the ball too much and therefore had too many chances to make mistakes.
We (England) won't win anything until we address this midfield 'hole' .........with players who can hold onto the ball when we're a bit knackered.
We are and always have been the most overated team in the world. One trophy and one final in 130 years, even Greece can equal that.
We aren't too clever at our other national sport either.
Best stick to darts eh? Mind you the Dutch are catching us up in that.
Everyone's at it though, Holland's goal came from a defensive cock up. It's like it's suddenly the only way to play the game. Bonkers.
Too right. Everyone is trying to copy the supposed genius that is Guardiola. Guardiola though has been head coach of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City. All with ridiculous resources.
The penny will drop at some point with a good few head coaches that there are other and better ways for their teams to play.
No surprise with Aidy Hoofthroyd tasked with nuturing them. What must Foden make of the likes of him after working under Pep?
any of you folk doing the Englands games, god i hate the international break
I'm going ;DGood man!
any of you folk doing the Englands games, god i hate the international break
It was a poor performance, the worst I’ve seen in a long time if I’m honest.I’m with you
However that’s the first qualifier in 10 years we’ve lost....people have an off day, it happens!
If they come back and play well and smash Bulgaria then it’s a blip
I though the team selection was bad though myself
Rice AND Henderson doesn’t work that need to be stopped immediately.
Michael Keane is not an international Centre Half, he needs replacing
Whenever we come up against anyone half decent we struggle. Southgate is a fraud.
I’m with you
There’s been a bit of an over reaction ...maybe we have some really good players (Kane ,Sterling) maybe we have some that are still young and learning (Sancho,rice,Rashford) and maybe some that will never be top 16 teams of world football quality (Pickford,Keane,Henderson)
Something felt strange watching them last night,I started to wonder if the “spurs†issues had festered ,could it be that the Erickson/verthongen problem had split Kane/Rose/Trippier,was this why trippier was sold ?...do others in the England camp now dislike 1-2 individuals due to their stance
Or maybe we just had an off day
Racist taunts, nazi salutes, no place for this lot in a civilised world.
FIFA should kick them out.
Set a precedent.
Racist taunts, nazi salutes, no place for this lot in a civilised world.
FIFA should kick them out.
Set a precedent.
England should have set a precedent by walking off.
I would like to have seen that personally as it would have shown that we are serious about the matter, and that would have made news around the world.
To be fair to the Bulgarian authorities they do seem to have acted on it. At half time a few hundred similarly dressed gentlemen left the ground. However, the abuse could still be heard in the second half.
Although not ideal, games like this should be abandoned so that the vast majority of home fans get the message that 'their own' caused the abandonment.
I go to Estonia on a regular basis to see friends and racism does seem to be ingrained to many. A few years ago they would casually use the N word to describe someone from an ethnic background, and they used it as a matter of course as opposed to using it with venom. We pointed the issue out, and when they came to England we made a point of taking them to the Balti belt etc and explaining what it was like living in a multi cultural society - they loved it, particularly the food!
I would say that eastern European countries are about 40 years behind us; a lot of their attitudes remind me of programmes such as Love Thy Neighbour etc. They will change I am sure, but we will never get rid of the Ultras within our societies. So for me, an abandonment would have been a great result to be honest.
We also need to remember that we are not exactly squeaky clean are we???
There is no comparison to what happened last night to what happens over here. Monkey chanting on the terraces.......in all of my time going to football ive witnessed 2 racist situations. 2 in over 35 years...
There is an issue with some people here but it happens away from the game and mainly on social media not on the terraces.
Last night was disgusting, nothing more than a 2 year international ban going forward for Bulgaria will do, anything after that and the ban doubles.
Tom, I am sure you are aware that racism takes many formats, the fact that you have not heard that type of chanting in 35 years does not mean we are not as bad. What happened at the Hartlepool - Dover game the other week?
Are you seriously telling me that the Chelsea and Millwall [as well as others] contingents were not racist in the 70's? Only a couple of years ago I clearly remember footage of Chelsea fans in Paris [I think] openly singing 'we're racist, we're racist and that's the way we like it' on a metro train.
I did say that in my opinion they are 40 years behind us in their progress. I never once suggested we have open chants from the terraces today, but it does exist...…
If you don't believe me have a look at some of the white supremacy postings on youtube. They are from all countries including us and I can assure you they are singing about what a jolly good football team they support...…..
Please quote me where ive said it wasnt around? I know it was around.....im talking about my experiences in football and ive not witnessed what our black players came up against last night.
Ive also never said it doesnt exist still in the game, its obvious it does (The Chelsea guys on Raheem Sterling for instance) but what happened last night was new to me in just over 35 years of following football.
This country has made huge strides societally with racism, you cant stop a person being racist...you cant, you can try but an inherent racist will be an inherent racist.
There is no comparision between thousands of people on a terrace monkey chanting at a game and a group of 3/4 people out of 40k+ saying something racist. Social media is the main protaganist of racism in football, its why ive come off Twitter.
Two points there;
It makes no difference the numbers involved, there must be a zero tolerance policy to it, and secondly I have heard the chanting a few times now with games in Europe so it is nothing new.
Regardless, we both agree that what happened last night is totally unacceptable.
Isn't it down to UEFA, not FIFA?These organisations now have w chance to do something that sends out a message. Kicking them out of this competition is pointless as they have no chance of qualifying anyway so ban them from next world cup , nations league and Euros , do this not just at senior level but U21's and others as well hopefully then it starts to dawn on younger generation !
Either way. UEFA/FIFA/FA - they're all the same, they simply do not care. Sanctions and fines for offences such as sponsorship breaches are greater than those for racist chanting. It's a disgrace. The fact the FA chairman has come out and defended UEFA says it all really.
Bulgaria should be expelled from the competition to send a statement, but we all know they'll get a slap on the wrist and we'll be back talking about it in a few months.
These organisations now have w chance to do something that sends out a message. Kicking them out of this competition is pointless as they have no chance of qualifying anyway so ban them from next world cup , nations league and Euros , do this not just at senior level but U21's and others as well hopefully then it starts to dawn on younger generation !
This country has made huge strides societally with racism, you cant stop a person being racist...you cant, you can try but an inherent racist will be an inherent racist.
It's a good job that not everybody shares this viewpoint... https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/kkk-klu-klux-klan-members-leave-black-man-racism-friends-convince-persuade-chicago-daryl-davis-a7489596.html
Racism is born of ignorance; if you talk to people and educate them, in most cases their beliefs will crumble. People are always scared of the unknown.
meanwhile on the footy, still think we (england) look awful trying to play out from the back, on the odd occasion the bulgars did press us high up the pitch we looked very ill at ease, why do our coaches insist on trying to make centre-halves into midfield maestro's
I thought Mings did OK last night but he wasn't really tested. Maguire on the other hand scares the living daylights out of me, has the distribution skills of a cropduster…….
i think the range of CH's which Southgate is trying out alludes to the problem, we haven't got English ball playing CH's in the mould of Van dyke / Kompany, if we had we would really be a world force !
have agree through gritted teeth that Mings looked ok and will have earned a run out against sterner opposition.
It's a good job that not everybody shares this viewpoint... https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/kkk-klu-klux-klan-members-leave-black-man-racism-friends-convince-persuade-chicago-daryl-davis-a7489596.html
Racism is born of ignorance; if you talk to people and educate them, in most cases their beliefs will crumble. People are always scared of the unknown.
I have seen on social media that the England fan who passed away in Bulgaria was a Baggie :(Who ever he was or where ever he lived was terrible.
Raheem Sterling axed from the squad for the Montenegro game after grabbing Joe Gomez round the throat at St Georges Park this evening.Well they can’t use VAR for the incident because they don’t have it switched on for Liverpool vs City?
LFC living rent free in Manchester City's head. You love to see it.
Big decision this from Southgate though the description of the incident didn't leave him much choice with the Daily Mail getting hold of the story to be able to deal with it in house.
Can't side with a player who is in the wrong because he's a better player. 😂
couldnt be arsed to watch the 7-0. was it a good game folks
It's alright cake walking the qualifiers need to do it on the big stage.
We still somehow managed to lose a game in a group that should have been a complete doddle. First time in ten years that we have lost a qualifier, even under the complete disaster (apparently) that was Roy Hodgson we managed to avoid defeat in them.
I do get fed up of people holding Southgate up as being Corberan. We managed to beat a few poor teams at the World Cup and lost eveyr game when we came up against anyone half decent...he is just not a good manager, when it comes to the crunch decisions he just is not up to it. We have a superb young squad now with the fruits of the under 17 world cup winning squad coming through which will be wasted under his watch.
Can anyone explain why the England team between say 76 and 86 was so poor? We were dominating Europe at club level with a variety of clubs, I realise a portion of the top players at those clubs were home nations nationals as opposed to English but surely it was not a majority?I think you've hit the nail on the head mate that the top teams were made up of the best of British. That's only from memory though, maybe state say otherwise but I always thought that a GB 11 would be e won a major trophy.
Edit. Sorry should have added it's before my time...
Can anyone explain why the England team between say 76 and 86 was so poor? We were dominating Europe at club level with a variety of clubs, I realise a portion of the top players at those clubs were home nations nationals as opposed to English but surely it was not a majority?
Edit. Sorry should have added it's before my time...
I am not sure what par would have been over the same period 5 maybe. Spain until relatively recently were seen as international football's great under achievers. Yet one golden generation from 2008 to 2012 have glossed over 25 years of relative mediocrity.
Can anyone explain why the England team between say 76 and 86 was so poor? We were dominating Europe at club level with a variety of clubs, I realise a portion of the top players at those clubs were home nations nationals as opposed to English but surely it was not a majority?
Edit. Sorry should have added it's before my time...
Spain were certainly under achievers, but even they had been to 2 major finals (winning 1), prior to their modern golden era.
By any measure England have been the laggards of the major footballing nations. The comparison with Spain being that one exceptional side could quite quickly give us a bit of respectability in terms of final appearances.
Good point. While I doubt the coming generation is anywhere near as special as the La Masia driven side, I do think there is a chance that we will finally make some finals over the next decade, and the financial gulf between Europe and the rest of the world means we should do more over the next 50 years as well.
I’d be shocked if we are still in this situation when I reach 60.
In 1974 because of the England's failure to qualify for the World Cup I watched Holland and fell in love with Dutch football As a impressionable 13 year old decided that as a Centre Half Rudi Krol was a my new role model. It really didn't end well when I started to bring the ball out from the back the watching PE teacher bellowed "Who do think you are Joanne Cryuff (the mispronunciation was entirely deliberate I think)" Me "No Sir Rudi Kroll" PE teacher "You're not him neither whoever he is).
My ongoing admiration for Dutch football dates from 1974 in truth I find the poor spells from the Dutch national side more vexing than those from England. To a degree my expectations are out of whack Netherlands after all is a nation with less than half the population of England. Yet they have managed to give football 2 genuinely great teams one of which was ephoc defining.The Dutch had enough chances to have beaten Germany in the 1974 final, but after taking an early 1-0 lead, they tried to rub the Germans noses in it with lots of showboating. Still lots of post-war memories. The Germans got back into it from a penalty which the Dutch claimed was a dive, and then Muller got the winner. They got to the final again in 1978, and when it was 1-1 close to the end, they hit the post. Argentina went on to win 3-1 in extra time.
i dunno how old you are, but be prepared to be shocked
I’ve had my fair share of hurt as an England fan so I know not to get too carried away, but football has followed an increasing pattern in recent years of European domination (2 of the last 4 world cup semi finals have had entirely European line ups, and all of the last 4 World Cups have been won by a European nation who also have one of the “big 5†leagues).
I’ve seen a fair bit written about the trends that suggest the money that the big leagues are generating is starting to give a widening advantage over the rest of the world and this will increasingly play into our hands.
The money being put into youth development in England now is at a record high, arguably evidenced by the upturn in performance by the Welsh national team in addition to ours who benefit via their English pyramid club sides as well as dual nationals.
There is no guarantee of course, Germany, Spain and France are producing just as many players as us, while Italy, Portugal, Netherlands and Belgium have brilliant programmes, but our last 2 tournament performances have been promising (World cup and Nations League) and you can pair that with a number of highly successful age grade teams winning things from the Under 16s up to the under 20’s in the last 4 years (ignoring 2019’s youth results blip).
There hasn’t been a time in my life when we have had such a variety of high quality youth players between the ages of 16-23 as we do right now. Sancho, Greenwood, Alexander-Arnold, Hudson-Odoi, Foden, Harvey Elliot, Maddison, Mount as well as others like Grealish, Reece James, Bellingham etc. If only a quarter of these players fulfil their potential, that is still a very strong core of high quality players.
I’ve never been so confident that England will break the bad streak sooner rather than later.
Hands up! Who would cheer an England goal scored by Grealish?
Oops..Maguire found guilty on all 3 charges..including repeated attempts at Bribery..
I think Maguire is full of ****!
Coady at Wolves and Maitland-Niles are Arsenal get call ups.I reckon Vinny Samways may get in ahead of captain jack😂😂
Get Coady, even if it slaps Tarkowski in the face again, but surprised by Maitland-Niles who is a squad player for a mid table side.
A day after James Tarkowski is snubbed by England for the the first team, the under 21s decide to keep Arsenal sub Reiss Nelson in the side at the expense of Dwight McNeil, one of the best wingers in the premier league.
Big club bias alive and well in national team selections again, couldn't possibly have players from little old Burnley.
Does no one rememeber James Tarkowski has been called up before and also looked out of his depth when he did? Uncomfortable on the ball and gave away a clumsy penalty.
Does anyone also actually beleive he's an amazing centre back and not merely someone who plays well because he plays in a extremely defensive system? Michael Keane who's apparently no good now used to be their star centre back. Heck, put Kyle Bartley in a system where he has two jobs: Win headers, make blocks and he'll probably look great too.
Does no one rememeber James Tarkowski has been called up before and also looked out of his depth when he did? Uncomfortable on the ball and gave away a clumsy penalty.
Does anyone also actually beleive he's an amazing centre back and not merely someone who plays well because he plays in a extremely defensive system? Michael Keane who's apparently no good now used to be their star centre back. Heck, put Kyle Bartley in a system where he has two jobs: Win headers, make blocks and he'll probably look great too.
What a dreadful, dreadful match this is. It's a farce they're even bothering with the Nations League this year given the circumstances.
How as that big Albion flag got in the ground!?
England kit is a massive Albion fan so I'd guess its something to do with thatCheers, it was good to see it there!
Absolutely appalling first half.Have to agree I've turned over for the cricket!
There's no place for 2 of Rice, Dier and Phillips in this team. Woeful.
Southgate really is poor.
Tactically inept from a Southgate basically playing 7 defenders
If England had sense, they would get Arsene Wenger in. The perfect manager for this England team.Great shoutq
Absolutely appalling first half.
There's no place for 2 of Rice, Dier and Phillips in this team. Woeful.
Southgate really is poor.
does anybody get excited watching England anymore. tis like a wasp annoying and wont go away
Grealish, Coady and Ings not in the team after their performances the other night and Maguire is back in what a joke oh and Pickford back in goal
Grealish, Coady and Ings not in the team after their performances the other night and Maguire is back in what a joke oh and Pickford back in goalLe Tissier scored a hatrick for England B against Russia in 98 and lost out to the box awful Darren Anderton. Nothing changes and probably never will.
Big Rom still looks class.Awful, awful player as is Maguire.
1 nil. Dier very poor, but we already know that.
Awful, awful player as is Maguire.Add Declan Rice to that list. Cack.
Whatever you think of the bloke off the pitch or as a rival. Jack Grealish should be in this team. Every time.And Coady, and Mings.
As I type, decent bit of simulation by Jordan Henderson.
1-1 Rashford.
And Coady, and Mings.
They aren't glaring omissions though. Grealish is probably our best player.They are if the alternatives are Dier and Maguire.
A dive and a deflection. Maybe it's better to be a lucky manager?Done ok second half, stifled Lukaku. What we wouldn't give for a DeBrune though
Done ok second
What we wouldn't give for a DeBrune though
Don’t need DeBruyne..... we’ve got Matheus Pereira !I was talking England mate. The fact DeBruyne (thanks for the spelling lesson ;D) couldn't lace Matty's boots, goes without saying ;)
McGuire sent off for winning the ball, there.
How come we are at home and playing in blue shirts?
Struggling to see which way we're kicking. Never seen so many balls played backwards in a game never mind an international#ala Pulis.
England v Scotland next year then. hopefully travel restrictions are over and supporters are back in football stadiums
Did England have puppies on the shirts tonight?
Missed the first twenty minutes of the game, still feels really odd watching football on TV. Absolutely no substitute for being there. Does anyone know if the competitive games are free to air or whether they're split between Sky and BT? While I'd watch if free I'm not shelling out for an England game when I haven't been paying to watch the Albion.
Aside from the superb Grealish another terrible England team selection and performance.If Grealish would stay on his feet he would cause a lot more problems around the box instead of going down like he'd been shot! Twice tonight he went down when it would have been better to keep going then the free kicks where wasted.
Southgate Out.
Aside from the superb Grealish another terrible England team selection and performance.
Southgate Out.
It’s not even a pain for me to say Grealish is an excellent player.Spot on. Don't think anyone can question Grealish's ability, it's the likes of Dier, Rice, Mount and Walker that are the issue for me, either past it or not up to it. And Henderson is England's Livermore, just slows play down too much.
I’ve never doubted his talent with the ball at his feet, I just hated him with the grass at his chest.
Should be a shoe in for England, you need ball carriers in the midfield and he’s one of if not the best in the Prem at that.
Spot on. Don't think anyone can question Grealish's ability, it's the likes of Dier, Rice, Mount and Walker that are the issue for me, either past it or not up to it. And Henderson is England's Livermore, just slows play down too much.
Grealish is very much the future, as is (spits) Coady. Regardless of who they play for, I just want England to be as good as they can be.
Mason Mount is a very good player.He's ok, better for Chelsea than England, but not the real deal for me. Thanks for the input though
Not really interested in this discussion but just thought I'd butt in and pull you up on that 😉
I haven't watched an England game since the World cup, prima donnas the lot of them and Grealish is just the cherry on top of the cake.
I haven't watched an England game since the World cup,
I think a more appropriate descriptor of Grealish with England would be that he's a fairy on a gob of la rd. You're welcome ;D .;D well said and a thumbs up from me!
You'd have to be pretty bitter and blinkered not to recognise Jack Grealish as the best English footballer currently lacing up the boots. Don't @ me.
You'd have to be pretty bitter and blinkered not to recognise Jack Grealish as the best English footballer currently lacing up the boots. Don't @ me.Not bitter, not blinkered agree he is a very good player! But i will never accept his diving especially when he is in a better position by staying on his feet. He just can't help himself!
Some people are comparing Grealish to Gascoigne. Well here's a comparison....... a inebriated up Gazza is better than Grealish.Gazza was a one-off a player who could change a game in an instant saying that he was a deeply flawed character that damaged his career but to compare him with Grealish is just laughable.
Yesterday we were talking about the sad passing of one of England's greats
Today the media is comparing another of England's greats, with a player who has difficulty staying on his on his feet.
I would never compare Grealish to Gascoigne, he is nowhere near that level.
He is however an excellent player, he has shown consistency this season and kept Villa up almost singlehandedly after the lockdown break.
With the ball at his feet running at players he looks effortless.
Id have him in the current England first team without doubt.
Id have Foden in aswell, think he will go on to be a great at international level for England
Grealish is technically superb. Despite his ongoing impersonation of a rag doll that's been shot in the back with a giant blunderbuss he also has deceptively good balance. He's probably quite a lot stronger than he looks and he's easy on the eye when running with the ball. However, he is far from being an excellent player.
This is the kind of comment I've come to associate with one eyed Vilers and I'm rocked to the core to see it written here. I may have to take to my bed for the rest of the day while Mrs SmethDan wipes my weary brow. God knows a shag's out of the question anyway.
I agree he 'won' the Vile a lot of set pieces around the opposition's area last season and the one before when both his strength and balance inexplicably deserted him (at will). However, Super Jack didn't keep them up single handedly last season. Hawkeye played an undeniably large part in that. Further to this (although anecdotal) Jack actually went missing for large parts of last season in the opinion of several Vilers down our local.
I have no problem with him being in the England squad but he's nowhere near the title 'excellent'. If he looked up, passed a little sooner, increased his assists and goal tally he could become a very good player as opposed to the good one he is now. He needs to forget re runs of the Jack Grealish Show to concentrate on the England and dare I say it the Performing Seal show before that happens though.
Excellent? Tish and pah man, I'm off to bed ;) .
I share your hatred of the Vile, however I think he is an excellent player.
Grealish was excellent after lockdown, he dragged them into a position where they could stay up. The hawkeye thing was terrible and led to them staying up inevitably, but, only a couple of weeks prior they had a decision go against them which was incorrect, which if it hadnt would have led to them staying up regardless of that fateful day v Sheff Utd.
He has been tremendous this season too, people get hung up on the goals and assists thing when in reality its normally his good play prior to the final ball that leads to the goal.
I cant stand the lad, but he is for me an 'excellent' footballer
Grealish is technically superb. Despite his ongoing impersonation of a rag doll that's been shot in the back with a giant blunderbuss he also has deceptively good balance. He's probably quite a lot stronger than he looks and he's easy on the eye when running with the ball. However, he is far from being an excellent player.
This is the kind of comment I've come to associate with one eyed Vilers and I'm rocked to the core to see it written here. I may have to take to my bed for the rest of the day while Mrs SmethDan wipes my weary brow. God knows a shag's out of the question anyway.
I agree he 'won' the Vile a lot of set pieces around the opposition's area last season and the one before when both his strength and balance inexplicably deserted him (at will). However, Super Jack didn't keep them up single handedly last season. Hawkeye played an undeniably large part in that. Further to this (although anecdotal) Jack actually went missing for large parts of last season in the opinion of several Vilers down our local.
I have no problem with him being in the England squad but he's nowhere near the title 'excellent'. If he looked up, passed a little sooner, increased his assists and goal tally he could become a very good player as opposed to the good one he is now. He needs to forget re runs of the Jack Grealish Show to concentrate on the England and dare I say it the Performing Seal show before that happens though.
Excellent? Tish and pah man, I'm off to bed ;) .
As you repose prostrate on your litter, please consider your use of this phrase in connection with young jack and performing seals, and I quote "he's easy on the eye". Whilst considering this, if a little bead breaks out upon your person, I most sincerely hope its sweat and not another bodily fluid, Oh, and by the way he is most definitely not excellent !
This grinds my gears a bit when it comes to Grealish. My opinions on Grealish have zero to do with my hatred of the Vile. Absolutely nothing. I am perfectly capable of separating the two, something I have done in the post above by recognising his attributes as well as highlighting the more questionable aspects of his general game. You're more than welcome to your opinion of Jack Grealish and all of the very best with your claret and blue pom poms on the touchline ;) .
I heard on the radio that some think Grealish could be a "NEW GAZZER." As they say round here I had to loff.
A former top ref said of Grealish, "he goes down too easily" Maybe all the refs will read this.
I heard on the radio that some think Grealish could be a "NEW GAZZER." As they say round here I had to loff.
A former top ref said of Grealish, "he goes down too easily" Maybe all the refs will read this.
Most fouled player in the country isn't he? Imagine if the refs weren't clamping down on him... :-XThe argument isn't refs clamping down on him, rather its the reverse, that they ignore him because of his antics!
So other than running well with the ball, what does he do for you to consider him an excellent football player? Given that as you state he spends so much time sprawled on the grass (arms open and gob agape) when he could release the ball before contact's initiated or he initiates it that is?
I can't help but wonder whether said time would be better employed providing the goals and assists that some people apparently dwell on too much (this relates to one of your earlier comments) when assessing the worth of creative players.
As in players who manufacture an end product via playing football as opposed to playing the system. It's well documented that I've been going off the game for sometime now. If being lauded for flopping in a heap's worthy of commendation along similar lines as a tremendous shot or outstanding skill with the ball then I'm finally done with the game full stop.
He's a good player who could go on to be so much more. And by that I mean he has the potential to be really, really good. That said I feel it's fair to assume that our definitions of excellence 'fall' a considerable distance apart.
I'm not an old fashioned romantic yearning for yesteryear. I just want to see footballers who can play football - play football - as Grealish can, as opposed to gaining yards on a pitch because they know how to successfully manipulate as Grealish often does.
Gascoigne was a generational talent. Doesn’t stop Grealish being by a distance the closest thing to him we've got currently.
Most fouled player in the country isn't he? Imagine if the refs weren't clamping down on him... :-X
Tielemans scored again for Belgium, wouldn't get a look in for England.
Still our biggest problem we pick players instead of picking a team. If the best left back in the country plays for Boro or Sheffield Wed, he should play not a big 6 right back out of position. Please note this is a hypothetical generalisation, not a reference to tonight's team, I'm not watching
Agree with the sentiment. Don’t agree with you assessment of Tielemans, who I think is a very good player and still getting better. He would get plenty of minutes in a midfield three for us.It was more a reference to his profile and who he plays for mate, rather than his ability. I think he should but don't think he would.
Got a thing for Foden in a non-sexual way. Really like the player.
It was more a reference to his profile and who he plays for mate, rather than his ability. I think he should but don't think he would.
Ah ok, my mistake. Yeah the big club bias’s is still strong.
Got a thing for Foden in a non-sexual way. Really like the player.
That 2nd goal was Messi esq in the way he dribbled and finished it, not for a minute am I saying he’s going to be the next Messi, he’s going to have to go some to get to that level of consistency Messi has shown for 10+ years but it’s exciting to see an English player with that level of natural ability.
Will be the amongst the best midfielders out there if he continues to develop at the pace he has.
Who? Foden? Needs to concentrate on winning more free kicks in dangerous areas...... this pass, move and score lark's old hat and out of keeping with the modern game's more technically gifted players who glide across the grass with grace and elan before crumpling to the floor in and around the box. Luckily enough he has an international team mate from whom he can learn much in this respect.Can't they both be good? Would certainly be better for England if they were.
Who? Foden? Needs to concentrate on winning more free kicks in dangerous areas...... this pass, move and score lark's old hat and out of keeping with the modern game's more technically gifted players who glide across the grass with grace and elan before crumpling to the floor in and around the box. Luckily enough he has an international team mate from whom he can learn much in this respect.
Oh dear Christ.
What’s the problem, I’ve not outright said he’s the next Messi but he looks like he has bags of talent, Guardiola’s come out & said he’s one of the most naturally gifted youngsters he’s worked with, when he’s saying that sort of makes you sit up and think he could be some player. I’m not saying he’s the next Messi after 1 game v Iceland but the guy looks as though he’s got the ability to be a very good player if he can be consistent and stay healthy.
Your post suggested only consistency separated them. He's way below the GOAT on natural talent (who isn't) but if the Grealish/Gascoigne links deserved scorn, Foden/Messi is on another planet of rose-tinted.
Guardiola’s come out & said he’s the most talented player he’s ever seen, that’s ridiculous praise when you consider who he’s worked with day in day out including Messi. I’d also argue consistency is what has separated Messi & Ronaldo from the others over the past 10+ years. I think Neymar is probably as naturally talented as Messi, the difference is Messi does it game after game year after year, Neymar hasn’t hit that level of consistency & hasn’t stayed healthy which is why he’s not on Messi / Ronaldo’s level. It’s all hearsay anyways let’s just hope for England’s sake Foden keeps putting in performances like Wednesday in an England shirt.Needs to back that up by giving him starts then. Only thing that will hold Foden back is not playing week in week out.
Once a D head always a D head.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/sportsnews/article-8978371/Jack-Grealish-charged-FOURTH-motoring-offence-year.html
Yeah, read that yesterday. Tailgating on the motorway at 98mph. Total of three offences in the course of one day following the events of earlier this year with six points on the go from 2018 already. One aspect of life where he's certainly been working on consistency. He must 'drive' Dean Smith up the wall. Here's hoping for everyone's sake that he never ends up doing a Hughes.
I don't think i've ever seen a team as poorly coached as England under 21's. They're just awful at everything. England coaches seem to have noted that 3-4-3 is in fashion yet have zero idea how to implement it.
Boothroyd was bottom of league two when he was last sacked, it is absolutely baffling he has kept this job for 5 years. Even now, such is the FA incompetence I am not sure he will be let go after this.
Let's hope our appointment is secured, preferably Allardyce continuing, before Boothroyd gets the tin tack.You ever thought about writing horror books?
Let's hope our appointment is secured, preferably Allardyce continuing, before Boothroyd gets the tin tack.
Think you will find the double barrelled names are kids from broken marriages using both parents surnames. Quite the opposite of the Tarquinius forsetyh SmithesI've known plenty of people from broken marriages. All of them kept their original surname. I'm sure footballers in the recent past have had similar family problems. They stuck with one surname. It's a fad, and you know it.
I've known plenty of people from broken marriages. All of them kept their original surname. I'm sure footballers in the recent past have had similar family problems. They stuck with one surname. It's a fad, and you know it.
Thankfully Boothroyd is out of contract in the summer. Not a chance they will extend his contract surely?
On another note - Dwight McNeil is the most limited, one dimensional footballer I’ve ever seen.
Thankfully Boothroyd is out of contract in the summer. Not a chance they will extend his contract surely?
On another note - Dwight McNeil is the most limited, one dimensional footballer I’ve ever seen.
Thankfully Boothroyd is out of contract in the summer. Not a chance they will extend his contract surely?
On another note - Dwight McNeil is the most limited, one dimensional footballer I’ve ever seen.
Sean Dyche manages to get a tune out of him - could be, just could be down to the manager.
And he plays in a very pragmatic Burnley side which focus on shifting the ball wide and relying on McNeil to play balls into the middle for the likes of Wood and Barnes to attack. It has been a success for Burnley but it is severely limited.
England have had a drive across all levels to manoeuvre the ball, be technically sound & play a number of different positions (Foden, Grealish, Hudson-Odoi, Sancho, Sterling, Watkins, Nketiah, Cantwell, Smith Rowe etc). McNeil from what I have seen is so one footed and unable to offer the guile that the others provide.
On Thursday, whenever he received the ball, it was largely over hit crosses towards Nketiah. It’s in total contrast to the rest of the side - even given Boothroyd severe limitations as a manager.
He’s effective in limited sides which play pragmatic, percentage football.
He’s a better version of James McClean.
This is very accurate. Does a good job for Burnley and even though pretty much all the England players were subpar McNeil really stood out for how technically limited he was. His touch was shocking, takes him an age to control a pass.
See kit man Dave has the West Brom flag prominent again :D :DProbably the best thing about the game!
Bet on a giant snail race once when I was on holiday back in the 90s.
I used to have a racing snail, but felt it was a tad too slow.
To speed it up I took the weight of its' shell off its' back.
Trouble was then, it became sluggish.
mind numbing boring game in the end Referee seemed stop play at every slight foul he could which didn't help to quote my stepmum when Harry Kane got booked which I will get to "What a load of ****." How was that a Booking to Harry Kane he went for the ball got it was shoulder barged by there defender into the other one which resulted in a three way clash.
Quite impressed with that from England would just have a feeling the defence has a mistake in them
Boothroyd to leave U21 role with immediate effect...Let's hope he isnt on our radar if Big Sam decides to go..
Boothroyd to leave U21 role with immediate effect...Let's hope he isnt on our radar if Big Sam decides to go..Must be one of the most overrated coaches in the last 20 years !!
I'm bored so just wondering...who would play for England if the top 6 players got banned this summer?Bellingham, Madison, James Justin, Branford, Ings, Calvert Lewin, Pope, Tarwokski, Mee,
GK: Pickford
AMF: Grealish
AMF: Sancho
Others: Phillips (Leeds), Ward-Prowse, Lingard (if he moved to West Ham), Antonio, Barnes, Tarkowski?
Sadly, Vardy has retired from international football. Looks bleak, maybe Craig Dawson would be in the team too.
Bellingham, Madison, James Justin, Branford, Ings, Calvert Lewin, Pope, Tarwokski, Mee,
Good shout, Calvert-Lewin of course. My main concern would be the defense which is very poor in comparison to the rest of the team.Goalie: Pickford with Pope on the Bench SJ as backup
Goalie: Pickford with Pope on the Bench SJ as backup
Defence
Left Back: Matty Cash maybe, James Justin,
Centre Backs: Tarkowski, Mee, Dawson, Holgate, Mings, Ben Godfrey
Right Backs: Justin, Jamal Lewis
CDM's: Phillips, Ward Prowse,
CAM's Sancho, Bellingham, Lingard if he joins WHU which I now hope he does, Madison, Barnes
Forwards, Kane if he leaves Tottenham in the Summer, Ings, Calvert Lewin, Maybe we could get Vardy out of retirement he said if we need him he would be there
I can't believe I took a wrong turn and ended up in an alternate universe where Jack Squealfish could conceivably end up as England's Captain. Please.... just make it stop...... I can't cope with this anymore.Livermore captain,Bartley,Johnstone
Livermore captain,Bartley,Johnstone
Southgate's insistence on 2 holding midfielders will hold back at least one of these superb talents.
All things being equal I want Grealish, Foden and Sterling as the attacking trio behind Kane, but managers love Mason Mount.
While I’d love Bellingham to be developed into one of the midfield 2, most scouts I’ve listened to - and the Dortmund manager it seems - see him as playing in the number 10/advanced midfielder role.
It's only the provisional squad isn't it? He will make the prov squad but can't seem him making the full one sadly.
The Athletic have confirmed Ben White has made the provisional squad. Brighton fans say Webster and particularly Dunk are more deserving of a call up. It's a bit like Villa fand with their views on Konsa and Mings. I feel Southgate goes for style over substance with his central defender picks.
When is the official squad announced outside of the provisionals?
I'll be fuming if Tomori isn't there.
Guess you're going to angry then.
I’m not having Reece James as better than TAA.
For me TAA should be going and he probably starting the group games. We certainly don’t need 4 right backs.
I don’t know how Watkins has got in over Bamford either although I expect he will be cut. Calvert Lewis can possibly count himself lucky given his form but he’s always done well for England.
Ramsdale
James
White
Lingard
Saka
Watkins
Mings
I think those are the seven I’d drop if injuries allowed.
I'd take James over Alexander_Arnold because he can defend and is able to cover 3 positions: England don't play like Liverpool.
I'd take Sako over Shaw because he can use his right foot when necessary and is a classier player, all round.
Clearly a lot of the denigration here of Mings stems from the fact that he's a Seal but he's genuinely left sided and intelligent. If McGuire is injured, I'd take him.
Jadon Sancho was very unconvincing for the U21' tournament but they were managed by Boothroyd so maybe I'd leave him in BUT goals win tournaments and I think Watkins is a surer shot.
Graeme Jones: well, well! There'll be some red faces if the team gets to the final even.
Id take TAA over James (i do like James though)Agree with all that Tom although tough on Saka.
Id cut Saka possibly as Shaw and Chilwell are very good LB's
Ben White
Phillips would be cut if we are taking Rice and Henderson
For me the 7 to go would be
Aaron Ramsdale
White
Phillips
Saka
James Ward-Prowse
Godfrey
and either Greenwood/Watkins or DCL. I do think DCL gives us a presence upfront though if Kane needs to come off and the other forwards can play off him.
Its a tough decision for Southgate on who gets dropped from the forward line more than the rest of the squad for me
Southgates starting Lingard tommorow even though he's not going to the Euros? :o
He's braindead isn't he? Christ what I'd give for a competent manager heading into this very winnable tournament.
Southgates starting Lingard tommorow even though he's not going to the Euros? :o
He's braindead isn't he? Christ what I'd give for a competent manager heading into this very winnable tournament.
That is quite scary Gareth is a nice guy but not the man for the job. He is not a risk taker.
Southgates starting Lingard tommorow even though he's not going to the Euros? :o
He’s perfect for us...come the end of June. 😁
Southgate made a comment in the press conference that made my ears prick up. When discussing Bellingham at 17, he said he will be a brilliant player for future England managers. I felt it was an odd comment - almost a Freudian slip that he knows he has a limited shelf life now. I wonder when he eventually plans to walk away?
I think this tournament is more of a warm up for the World Cup in Qatar which will be played at the perfect time for us as the players will not be knackered after a full season. We have a few key players missing (Gomez, possibly Maguire), while a few others are maybe a year away from where we need them to be (some based on form such as TAA, Abraham while others are maybe a year or two off being at their best- Greenwood, Foden, Sancho, Bellingham, Tomori, Guehi). The run to the final is also horrendous if we win the group as we play potential winners in every single round of the knockouts.
What I’d like to see is some progress this year. We need some high profile victories to show we can mix it with the best. We lose more often than not when facing top tier sides, particularly in competitive games. I’d like to see us beat Portugal/Germany in the last 16 and maybe a Spain in the quarters. If we lost to France in the semi finals having beat those two then I’d say we have done a good job - it is a lot to expect us to keep beating the very best every time. What we can’t afford to do is lose the first time we come up against a big boy. Southgate should go if that happens.
Bizarrely I think Euros are a tougher competition than world cup, is that correct? and how can that make sense logically?
2nd round will be the big game I feel, if we win our group we then play the 2nd placed team out of the France, Germany & Portugal group
I think Portugal & France will be the 2 to qualify from that group I think they are the 2 best teams going into the tournament, both teams are more balanced than we are & have deeper squads.
Both France and Portugal are temperamental, meanwhile Germany are so consistent in tournaments, cannot see them not straight through.
I would say Portugal will struggle, as will we.
Grealish Lingard, Sako the west ham guyWhy would you play Lingard who didn't make the final 26?
Non good enough to play for England
Well taken goal by Sako fair play to him
I will never agree about Grealish
I don't like the way he plays his football
Well taken goal by Sako fair play to himThat’s not the same as saying he isn’t any good
I will never agree about Grealish
I don't like the way he plays his football
Jack Grealish is a sensational footballer - when he's in full flow, there are not many better in world football.
Tomori should be there but that’s a drum I’ve already beaten. By the next World Cup, we will hopefully have Gomez, Tomori, Guehi and maybe even Harwood-Bellis showing how good they are.
It would be nice if we could see a left footed player emerge but then I’m sure lots of top teams get away with predominantly right footed pairings. I’d like to think professional footballers can use their weaker foot fairly well when needed nowadays.
I'd prefer a right and left footed partnership but it doesn't matter so much in a back four, it is more critical in a 3. I'd rather have Konsa in the squad than either of Mings or Coady .
I'd rather have Konsa in the squad than either of Mings or Coady .
Grealish for Villa I hate
Grealish for England I'll back as he is playing for my country
That still doesn't however stop me wishing he would stop diving and cheating regardless of who he is playing for. If he does it for England we get a free kick that is blasted in and wins us a vital game I wouldn't care however if we had a great move coming on he dives ref calls it back then I would be annoyed. And the less said about his antics at Villa the better
It’s cheating regardless of who he is playing for.Agreed, cheats of any kind shouldn't prosper in any respect and the circumstances of the cheating don't change that.
Gutted for TAA, ruled out of the tournament.
No TAA or Gomez, Henderson and Maguire unlikely to be fit for the start of the tournament, some big blows there to players who probably would be starters or close to it.
Will be a tough tournament for us to win, everything going against us.
Gutted for TAA, ruled out of the tournament.
No TAA or Gomez, Henderson and Maguire unlikely to be fit for the start of the tournament, some big blows there to players who probably would be starters or close to it.
Will be a tough tournament for us to win, everything going against us.
Just seen the huge Union flag with West Bromwich Albion onit’s the kitman’s, goes to every England game.
Great to see for Sam
Never wanted England to lose before but I hope they get hammered.Why's that?
Never wanted England to lose before but I hope they get hammered.
Why's that?
Just seen the huge Union flag with West Bromwich Albion on
Great to see for Sam
why are my perfectly normal comments being removed I have been slated and not allowed a response?
Its a football forum and anything else is going to be removed, not interested in veiled political comments so all comments non football have gone and will continue to be removed.Fine, although I don't understand my reply to caravan being removed and thanks for removing the derogatory comment against me I had responded before that had happened.
If ignored then the members posting them will also be removed.
Lack of first team players and no continuity showed. Grealish, Johnstone played well. Bellingham good when he came on and JWP making a push for that last squad place.Why wouldn't you want Boro to get another game you would be a rare fan indeed if you have never booed your football team.
Not sure how I feel about our first team not getting a single warm up game together pre tournament, but I don't have high hopes anyway with how things have fell.
Grealish won't start against Croatia but should seriously be considered at some stage. Had he been playing for Spurs these last few years, he would be a starter and likely being looked at by a club like Real Madrid right now, he is sensational.
Fans booed the players off at half time. I know it wasn't a great performance but do you really want to do that in our last game? Fingers crossed Middlesbrough doesn't get another England game for a generation.
Great save Johnstone
Whether we like him or not, Grealish has to start when the real thing begins. A class player without doubt.
Why wouldn't you want Boro to get another game you would be a rare fan indeed if you have never booed your football team.
Why wouldn't you want Boro to get another game you would be a rare fan indeed if you have never booed your football team.
And then booing Watkins onto the field and incessantly chanting Patrick Bamford...I don't know about individual moments I don't have a TV License but the England team at the moment is a PR disaster and resentment is running deep, as I understand it all these fans are signed up England supporters so they care deeply about the team.
To boo the team at half time just before a tournament is ridiculous. What are they hoping to achieve?
They were in a fortunate position of being able to attend after nigh on 12 months of football without supporters. They should have made the most of it rather than playing the daft one.
I don't boo Albion off, I certainly wouldn't boo my team off as they prepare for a major tournament where we have a chance of winning. As Liam says, the Watkins/Bamford rubbish from the Leeds contingent narked as well.Read my post below, home advantage will count for zip this year the team and fans are pulling in different directions.
rubbish support.
We need home advantage to count this year - even with the injuries we have players capable of winning the thing.
I don't know about individual moments I don't have a TV License but the England team at the moment is a PR disaster and resentment is running deep, as I understand it all these fans are signed up England supporters so they care deeply about the team.
World Cup semi finalists, a brilliant qualification campaign, 3rd place in the nations league in 2018/2019, a likeable group of players and possibly our best squad of players in my lifetime.I would love to expand on what you have said but rules are rules suffice to say I see it differently but eh wouldn't it be boring if we all agreed on everything.
I don’t really understand how resentment can be run in deep. This isn’t McLaren’s England. Most fans seem to be really positive about our chances.
Just poor support. I’d rather they didn’t go to games if they want to boo the players off for being 0-0 in a friendly if I’m honest.
Euro 2020: Aaron Ramsdale replaces injured Dean Henderson in England squad.
Does this then make Sam, second choice keeper?
I can see it now SJ saves England in penalty shoot out drama
Why? He didn't in the Play Off Semi.Doesn't mean he wouldn't next time. I think he has 6 saves from 14 in his Albion career.
Doesn't mean he wouldn't next time. I think he has 6 saves from 14 in his Albion career.
Not bad
Soithgate's squads continue to give with one hand and take with another.
Fikayo Tomori finally gets another call up, hopefully ending any lingering doubts of a switch to Nigeria for a true "defender's defender".
Sadly though, still no Mason Greendwood and for some reason Jude Bellingham misses out as well.
Surely both Greenwood and Bellingham have to be considered as strong contenders for the 2022 world cup.
Honestly had no idea his full name is 'Kevin Oghenetega Tamaraebi Bakumo-Abraham'. Some moniker that. He'd be able to tuck his shirt into his boots if he had the whole thing printed on the back of his shirt.Imagine hating the name Kevin that much you would rather take a girls name in Tammy ;D ;D
Honestly had no idea his full name is 'Kevin Oghenetega Tamaraebi Bakumo-Abraham'. Some moniker that. He'd be able to tuck his shirt into his boots if he had the whole thing printed on the back of his shirt.
who was the lad who played for Celtic, "van something of something long and unpronounceable" ?
I think Tammy even beats him !!
who was the lad who played for Celtic, "van something of something long and unpronounceable" ?
I think Tammy even beats him !!
Not a footballer, but there is a racing driver called Ferdinand Habsburg (yes… those Habsburgs) and his full name is Ferdinand Zvonimir Maria Balthus Keith Michael Otto Antal Bahnam Leonhard von Habsburg-Lothringen
Not a footballer, but there is a racing driver called Ferdinand Habsburg (yes… those Habsburgs) and his full name is Ferdinand Zvonimir Maria Balthus Keith Michael Otto Antal Bahnam Leonhard von Habsburg-LothringenMakes you wonder where that came from, perhaps his mom was a Cheggers fan
Not a footballer, but there is a racing driver called Ferdinand Habsburg (yes… those Habsburgs) and his full name is Ferdinand Zvonimir Maria Balthus Keith Michael Otto Antal Bahnam Leonhard von Habsburg-LothringenThats like looking at a line-up an hour before kick off, Ferdinand in goal looks a bit dodgy though!! ;D
Not a footballer, but there is a racing driver called Ferdinand Habsburg (yes… those Habsburgs) and his full name is Ferdinand Zvonimir Maria Balthus Keith Michael Otto Antal Bahnam Leonhard von Habsburg-Lothringen
I know this is going to sound saft but I honestly didn't realise England's next two fixtures were World Cup qualifiers. I've only been to one England international yet I received an email the other day to inform me I was eligible for a ticket for Saturday's match.
Either Andorra aren't quite the pull they were or like me others have decided a 19:45hrs kick off time on a Saturday night in London doesn't hold much of an attraction. Suppose it would be ok for those living within an easy commute or with an eye on making a weekend of it.
Errm it’s away!
Errm it’s away!
Errm it’s away!
Skysports are reporting that a fire has broken out at Andorra's stadium. Not sure how that is going to affect tomorrow's game.
I think it means Sam Johnstone's probably going to have to cancel his plans for an in game barbecue. If I were him I'd definitely still be taking a few Staropramens to pass the time though. And perhaps some pretzels or some other form of bar snack. Quite partial to those jalapeno biscuit bit things personally.
Snyders? Class snacks!
Sam could sit and watch the game himself on TV whilst eating those and we would still not concede
Notice how Grealish has gone from being an occasional sub to a nailed on starter in the space of atransfer to a top clubfew months.
Notice how Grealish has gone from being an occasional sub to a nailed on starter in the space of atransfer to a top clubfew months.
It’s always been predictable. Look at when both Grealish and Mount played in the championship. Grealish carried Villa to promotion, whilst Mount did ok for Derby.
By September, back at Chelsea, Mount got his England call.
Similar will happen with Sancho. As soon as he gets a run in the United side, he will be starting for England.
Kane was awful again. Was never worth £150 million, but you could knock at least £100 million off that valuation now.He hasn't suddenly turned into a bad player. His domestic situation needs addressing as he clearly isnt happy at Spurs and its affecting his game
He hasn't suddenly turned into a bad player. His domestic situation needs addressing as he clearly isnt happy at Spurs and its affecting his gameDiddums. He's under contract. He's very well paid. He (presumably) has plenty of friends at Spurs. No reason for him to be unhappy. Greedy and in the huff would be more accurate.
Diddums. He's under contract. He's very well paid. He (presumably) has plenty of friends at Spurs. No reason for him to be unhappy. Greedy and in the huff would be more accurate.
Are you saying money is the resolution to all unhappiness? But then call him greedy for wanting more, which by my understanding of your comment means he would be even happier.Whatever the reasons, he's clearly not right so we need to try an alternative. Shame there's not much about in terms of English strikers. Shame HRK is Welsh.
He can be un happy if a club have reneged on an agreed deal to let him leave.
I don’t buy that myself.
I think he has had to wait to get his chance. It’s obvious he should be playing though
for some reason (possibly since Mourinhio) Kane has got into the habit of dropping deeper and deeper as a game goes on, its not what he is in the team for, at times last night he was playing out on the touchline or where a holding M-f would be.
He should be in the box and attacking the ball, providing a focus for attacks, which Abraham did for his few minutes. Also his 1st touch was appalling last night, the ball kept bouncing away from him, needs to get back to basics at his club IMO.
If he keeps performing like that he will put clubs off paying the massive fees which have been bandied about.
What changed between the end of the Euros and the early September internationals? The only thing of note was about three league games for Man City. It’s not like he suddenly stepped up another level, he’s said himself he’s not found is Villa form yet.
date=1634118333]No, obviously not. I was just pointing out that he has no money worries, he has security, he has friends, he has talent, plenty to be positive about. Now what I was guilty of was assuming that his failed move to Man city is the reason for his unhappiness and drop off in form, but I think it is a reasonable assumption. If that's the case though, then he is being petulant and unprofessional. The move didn't work out, get over it, grow up.
Are you saying money is the resolution to all unhappiness?[/b] But then call him greedy for wanting more, which by my understanding of your comment means he would be even happier.
He can be un happy if a club have reneged on an agreed deal to let him leave.
I wouldn't call parking the bus brilliant mate.Neither would I, but I don't believe they did. They were very good before the goal and then, understandably, tired / sat back after but, even at 1-1 they had good opportunities. They executed their game plan brilliantly.
We weren't quite up for it, although hard to believe it does happen, even for Sunday league teams, but the point is we didn't lose
Only need 4 points from last 2 now
No, obviously not. I was just pointing out that he has no money worries, he has security, he has friends, he has talent, plenty to be positive about. Now what I was guilty of was assuming that his failed move to Man city is the reason for his unhappiness and drop off in form, but I think it is a reasonable assumption. If that's the case though, then he is being petulant and unprofessional. The move didn't work out, get over it, grow up.
In relation to the club having reneged on a deal to let him leave, there's no evidence that I've seen to support that apart from some speculation in the press. Does he has something in writing? Presumably not. In which case, he doesn't have a leg to stand on.
No, obviously not. I was just pointing out that he has no money worries, he has security, he has friends, he has talent, plenty to be positive about. Now what I was guilty of was assuming that his failed move to Man city is the reason for his unhappiness and drop off in form, but I think it is a reasonable assumption. If that's the case though, then he is being petulant and unprofessional. The move didn't work out, get over it, grow up.
In relation to the club having reneged on a deal to let him leave, there's no evidence that I've seen to support that apart from some speculation in the press. Does he has something in writing? Presumably not. In which case, he doesn't have a leg to stand on.
So he is unhappy? And all the money in the world doesn't necessarily equate to happiness.Clearly true, but then so is every other comment on this forum. Earlier you suggested that his loss of form might be unhappiness because Spurs had reneged on a deal to let him leave, now you're suggesting he may have personal problems, neither of which there any evidence for. I am suggesting the reason is because he's a greedy, petulant overpaid footballer with a sense of entitlement, which there is also no evidence for. Both of us are reaching a conclusion based on looking at the situation "through our own lens", better known as an opinion.
Unhappy, not enjoying his season at Spurs so far. Sounds like a player going through some personal problems.
You are judging him through your lens not through his.
Once he got his chance in the England side, the one he broke into whilst at Villa. Now that he has had his chance and played well he has kept it his spot.
And rightly so
I can't remember so many "international breaks" when I was younger. There are too many disruptions to club football with all these extra tournaments and qualifiers.
I agree with this 100%. He is a fantastic goal scorer, we only have to look at the record books for evidence of that. Something is clearly wrong with him and, personally, I do not know who the replacement should be if this run of bad form continues from Kane.
Connor Gallagher has been called up to the England squad.
Well done Connor, deserved recognition
Well done England. 10-15 years ago we’d have struggled with that fixture and had a point or unconvincing win.
Southgate has signed a new deal till 2024.
Man Ure have, possibly, missed a trick there, imo
They seem to be fixed on ZZ
Not a great scoreline, I don't really get what the non elite nations get from results like this. Should we have stepped off the gas at some point out of respect?More like quadruple. If England men had beaten Latvia 5-0 it would be seen as a good result. The women's world cup qualifiers are a joke, large amounts of complete humiliations. Not a great advert for the women's game.
It also emphasises why I don't think you can compare mens and womens scoring records at international level. You get quite a few journalists and bloggers who get offended when you hear "England's record appearance maker" or "record goalscorer" to say "actuallllyyyy, eh Women's game", but score lines like this are unheard of in men's UEFA comps. We were all stunned by the 10-0 vs San Marino, but the women have now scored 10 or more goals in 3 of their recent qualifiers, as well as hitting 8 in a other, while Northern Ireland have also hit 11 and 9 in recent games.
The gap between the Elite Women's sides in Europe and the lesser counterparts seems to be double that in the men's game.
Womens World Cup Qualifying
England 20 - 0 Latvia
Close then :D
I thought i moaned a lot.........
And you do :P ;) .If you sat next me at a match, you would know what moaning really is!! All my Grandkids call me Victor ;D
I thought i moaned a lot but dear me! How can anyone complain that an England team (weather it be men,women, schoolboys disabled or whoever) win 20-0? Well i for one thoroughly enjoyed it, sitting there not getting worked up, getting annoyed or throwing things at the TV. I am sure the women playing and the people in the ground enjoyed themselves aswell. I had forgotten that is what its all about, enjoying it!!
Sounds like we had Australia on the ropes but let them off with a dropped catch while Labuschagne was on 0, and then Head has taken the game away from up along with Green.That’s all very well, but this is the footie page. ☺ï¸
I know it's easy to say, but I feel like if England were in the same situation, we wouldn't get a 100 out of Pope at the moment
That’s all very well, but this is the footie page. ☺ï¸
Sj left out of squad, Nick Pope returns.I imagine he's a million miles from the England Squad the way he has performed this season.
anyone on here doing any of the England games. who we playing
Why Three Lions, Vinderloo and World In Motion are the only three World Cup Songs that most England Fans sing and know and are played frequently and as of recently Freed From Desire and Atomic Kitten in Southgate Your The One.
In news that will stun and please Baggies in equal measure, Tomori is in the 27 man England squad for this summer.im lost here, why would it stun and/or please us?
im lost here, why would it stun and/or please us?
im lost here, why would it stun and/or please us?
predictable and boring, will be glad when southgates reign comes to an endWith you on this one Glyn! Awful to watch.
With you on this one Glyn! Awful to watch.
We agree again then :oYou know it makes sense 🤣🤣
Southgate cost them a trophy they need to get shot of him. We had favourable runs in both last 2 tournaments. He isnt ruthless enough and his in game management is terrible as shown by his subs v italy. Be better suited to managing a side who arent favourites in most games where he could set up his pragmatic dont lose foorball.
Probably too late now he should have gone after euros
I think he's done well with the standard of player we have, in terms of skill, maturity and intelligence. The way the players went to pieces in the second half against Italy is something no manager can help.I think that despite many praising them, when you compare midfields that contain Rice/Phillips/Henderson to Scholes/Gerard/Beckham/lampard….it’s obvious where we are short?
I think that despite many praising them, when you compare midfields that contain Rice/Phillips/Henderson to Scholes/Gerard/Beckham/lampard….it’s obvious where we are short?
Bellingham is a player, but he needs a bit more time and a supporting cast.
With you on this one Glyn! Awful to watch.
I don't Rice Phillips and Henderson can't hold a candle to those you have mention in respect of their club games, but those players didnt set a particularly high international bar. Bellingham and Rice is longer term midfield two for me, unless a younger midfielder emerges and I don't see why with Foden and two from Sancho, Saka, Grealish, Sterling etc we can't be a better team (if not individuals) than the Scholes, Gerard, Becks, Lampard with the right manager.
It may not be good for the prem, but for England it would be great if Pep went and signed Bellingham next summer. I also think we need a striker to emerge in the next year or two as by 2026 Kane is likely to be well on his downward trajectory. None of the other current English strikers are going to be elite world level.
I don't Rice Phillips and Henderson can't hold a candle to those you have mention in respect of their club games, but those players didnt set a particularly high international bar. Bellingham and Rice is longer term midfield two for me, unless a younger midfielder emerges and I don't see why with Foden and two from Sancho, Saka, Grealish, Sterling etc we can't be a better team (if not individuals) than the Scholes, Gerard, Becks, Lampard with the right manager.I’ll agree that Grealish and Foden can/should be pretty useful...but I just don’t think we have a pirlo,xavi,invests,Lampard,toure...yet
It may not be good for the prem, but for England it would be great if Pep went and signed Bellingham next summer. I also think we need a striker to emerge in the next year or two as by 2026 Kane is likely to be well on his downward trajectory. None of the other current English strikers are going to be elite world level.
Greasy jack made a difference but a draw is flattering
Agreed.Isn't the game against Italy behind closed doors?
On another note, why are we playing two matches at Molineux. I don’t necessarily have an issue with England playing around the country sometimes, but it’s just too small. Even Villa park at 10K higher isn’t really big enough. Even the most uninspiring England fixture can sell 60k plus.
Agreed.
On another note, why are we playing two matches at Molineux. I don’t necessarily have an issue with England playing around the country sometimes, but it’s just too small. Even Villa park at 10K higher isn’t really big enough. Even the most uninspiring England fixture can sell 60k plus.
It's behind closed doors. Punishment for the trouble at the Euro final.
why not play the "30k kids for free" ploy that the Hungarians used??
Southgate deserves time after his accomplishments so far and these are a very strange set of games, bolted on to a l9ng season and only quasi competitive, but it is humiliating to be relegated from group 1 and I don't give us much chance in the World Cup on these showings.
0 goals from open play in 4 efforts but a fair few conceded.
......The only negative is the stalling of Liam Delay. Last year he looked like he could be on the fringes of the under 21's after his incredible PL2 goalscoring record, but injury last season has knocked him back and last night he was an unused sub.......
Anyone just seen the Russo goal😳She sent the sweedish keeper back to Sweden and Fran Kirkby What a Chip
Superb
Two class goals that Backheel though, wow madness
Swedish keeper extremely dodgy though.
We would not have been happy with a performance like that from our keeper (England or Baggies)
Normally she is very good, think she was losing interest having let two in already.
Bit bad being beaten with a ball between her legs though [cue the jokes ....]
If that backheel was by Ronaldo we would have been hearing about it for months....
If that backheel was by Ronaldo we would have been hearing about it for months....
Ive noticed a massive improvement in the womens game. Its a much better spectacle these days. More physicality, more pace inthe game, better technical players.
Be interesting to see where it is in 5-10 years time, these last 5-10 where its become more professional, with pro clubs taking on womens teams, has seen a huge uplift.
fanbtastic stuff from the Lionesses..and that backheel goal :o 8)
Maybe politically incorrect, but you do start looking around at which teams have the smartest looking women.
Ive noticed a massive improvement in the womens game. Its a much better spectacle these days. More physicality, more pace inthe game, better technical players.
Be interesting to see where it is in 5-10 years time, these last 5-10 where its become more professional, with pro clubs taking on womens teams, has seen a huge uplift.
fanbtastic stuff from the Lionesses..and that backheel goal :o 8)
Bryan Robson v Liverpool 1980/81
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8j8h8KdJn6A
about 3 mins 40
It's only poor standard if you are comparing it to the mens game.
Do people watch races in athletics and think how poor standard the womens races are because they don't get the time the men do?
I'm not so sure. Womens football is really poor. It's improved from 10 years ago don't get me wrong but it's still poor. It's very amateurish at times.
That because you are comparing it to men's football.
Womens football is just womens football.
It's only poor standard if you are comparing it to the mens game.
Do people watch races in athletics and think how poor standard the womens races are because they don't get the time the men do?
It's only poor standard if you are comparing it to the mens game.
Do people watch races in athletics and think how poor standard the womens races are because they don't get the time the men do?
I tend to agree. The elite men's game is of an extraordinarily high standard, it's the most played ball game in the world and the top few divisions host the vast majority of the world's best players.
If you watch non league football or under 23 football and you like football for what it is, you will still enjoy it, even if it isn't as flawless as the Men's elite game. The same goes for the Women. If you don't enjoy the women's game, it may be that your love of football has more to do with "the event" rather than the actual sport (and there is of course nothing wrong with that as it is entertainment after all - I'm the same with sports ike golf, I like the majors and the ryder cup but a standard European tour event doesn't really interest me).
For clarification i'm not comparing it to an elite mens game. It's absolutely nowhere near that.
Womens football is more of a higher amateur level, maybe semi-pro at the very top.
It's absolutely nowhere near any level of male professional football and that is not what i'm comparing it too.
Not wearing that.
But there are full professional leagues. So if you're not comparing the women's game to the men's game, what are you comparing it to? Other women's team sports?
Based on my experience of playing, the stuff i saw in last nights game was on par with say Premier division Sunday League standard (very good amateurs with a few semi-pros thrown in). Not in terms of speed/strength but of quality of ball played etc.
I am not saying womens footy is poor in comparison to mens, thats a given, what i am saying is that womens football is poor in it's own right if you don't watch mens professional football.
But in your first paragraph you literally compare the standard with men's football...you say the best women's teams are at the same standard of high amateur/semi-pro teams.
I watched England vs Sweden and was impressed from the beginning they even sing the National anthem!.
I thought the movement was good the effort you couldn't fault the lack of players rolling around as if they had been shot was refreshing infact I enjoyed it more than watching the men.
Bryan Robson v Liverpool 1980/81
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8j8h8KdJn6A
about 3 mins 40
Ellen White has announced her immediate retirement from Womens Football.I'm sure that she will be very happy to read your kind words next time she logs on to this forum ;D
A wonderful player and Englands all time leading goalscorer.
Very best wishes for the future in whatever direction it takes you and thank you for your services and for help raising the profile of the Womens Game
Ellen White has announced her immediate retirement from Womens Football.I read the headline on Facebook, had no idea who she was…..now that I do, I still wouldn’t spot her in the street .
A wonderful player and Englands all time leading goalscorer.
Very best wishes for the future in whatever direction it takes you and thank you for your services and for help raising the profile of the Womens Game
Why must the managers of both of my teams be so awful
I can't believe how average we look with the players he has at his disposal.
Rob Dorsett
@RobDorsettSky
#lfc Trent Alexander-Arnold left out of #england 23-man squad for Germany game tonight. Didn’t play a minute v Italy either. 👀 #brentford Ivan Toney IS in the matchday squad though. Tomori, Bowen, Ward-Prowse and Grealish (suspended) also miss out.
Harry Maguire can’t get a game for his club side, plays every game for England somehow.
Unsurprisingly just gives the ball away and chops someone down for a penalty. Trent is out of form and gets completely binned by Southgate as he is not one of the favoured few. Frightening how poor a manager he is
WE SCORED!!!!
First one from open play in over 9 hours. Frightening
WE SCORED!!!!
He has to go this won’t cut it at the World Cup we won’t make it out of the group. Maguire playing like he’s done in the past 12 months Southgate’s the only bloke who can’t see it
As I was saying Southgate’s going to win us the World Cup
;D
3 in 10 minutes what's going on Gareth!?
Keeps his job for the World Cup!
It's almost as if what managers do can change the game
3 3 now. Get him out 😂
This is some game!.
Maguire costs us again. 2-0
Southgate keeps the 5 at the back…
Baffling
Southgate 2017:
"I never pick on reputation — form has to come into it"
Southgate 2022:
"We've got to back our best and our most experienced players, unless we're in a situation where it's almost untenable and impossible to pick them"
He's now got to the stage he has pretty much admitted he doesn't pick on form, but he never has really. I think from memory the initial form comment was really to push Rooney out.
I think he's finished now anyway, the tide seems to have turned I think he will step down after the world cup. It's just a shame in my opinion that we will be wasting a world cup first.
5 years between those quotes, is your view and opinion on things 5 years ago exactly the same now?
Where's Sam Johnstone when you need him ;D
Well, when he's not counting his money he's mostly found watching a better all round goalkeeper earning his........ from the sidelines ;D .
Sami Mokbel
@SamiMokbel81_DM
EXC: Growing fears Reece James will miss the World Cup. Damage to knee more serious than first feared. Surgery a possibility. More shortly on @MailSport
Furlong moves to 5th choice based on data if true ;D
Has Furlong been placed on international duty standby, do we know? 8)
Sami MokbelHe’s better than Terence Trent **** Arnold
@SamiMokbel81_DM
EXC: Growing fears Reece James will miss the World Cup. Damage to knee more serious than first feared. Surgery a possibility. More shortly on @MailSport
Furlong moves to 5th choice based on data if true ;D
He’s better than Terence Trent **** Arnold
He’s better than Terence Trent **** ArnoldTTA is the most over-rated player since Jamie Carragher
With injuries mounting, Furlong and Townsend call ups ??
I think Qatar are supplying the ball boys for the tournament.
careful! ball persons of diminutive stature, I think you'll find.
I wonder how many England players will drop out of the tournament because of not agreeing with how the selction of Qatar as the venue was done, and also not feeling satisfied with the way the country is run.
If enough drop out, will england refuse to play there?
Maddison to be left out of squad according to rumours. Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips hopeful. I thought they were out injured?
i won't be playing 3 lions and world in motion on this occasion, i just can't get up for this
Maddison should be in the squad, as should Ivan Toney, but I don't think either will be. I also think Barnes offers something different to others with his directness but he isnt even in the discussion.
The team should be built around Bellingham, Rice, Foden and Kane. When fit, those four should be in any first team. The rest of the 11 is debatable to a greater or lesser extent. Reece James was probably another certainty before his injury but I'm not sure there are many others who are clearly the best option in their position.
I had high hopes for Sancho and thought by this tournament he would be a certainty but he's unlikely to make the squad (rightly so IMO).
The fact we dont have a top class centre back still lets us down. A Terry or Ferdinand would take the team to a much higher level. Even a Carragher would probably be our best centre back at the moment.
Barnes would be in any squad of mine. Fantastic player. Generally goes under the radar. A move to a "bigger club" and he'd be a regular.
What are peoples thoughts on the wider world cup?
My knowledge of world football isn't what it was. From 98-2014 I'd I would have known practically every player at every major country but now there are players, particularly in South America that I've never heard of.
I remember 18 months ago, Tim Vickery (South American Football Journo) saying that the South Americans were worried about how things were looking in Europe, but come the tournament, Argentina and Brazil the two favorites' for many.
Looking at the predicted squads, it feels like it's the closest on paper that I remember. Doesn't seem much difference in the top 5/6 squads (also seems a lack of top class defenders worldwide).
The Brazil Squad that is favourites includes as many premier league players as it surely ever has:
Alisson (Liverpool)
Ederson (Manchester City)
Thiago Silva (Chelsea)
Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle)
Casemiro (Manchester United)
Fabinho (Liverpool),
Fred (Manchester United)
Lucas Paqueta (West Ham)
Antony (Manchester United)
Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal)
Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal)
Richarlison (Tottenham)
That's some good players, but world cup winners? Keepers aside, I'd say only Martinelli and Guimaraes are in particularly great form and I wouldnt be overly concerned to see england come up against them.
Casemiro and Jesus are in pretty good form too.
What are peoples thoughts on the wider world cup?
Southgate has said he will decide if he speaks or not, not Fifa in regards to any political statements
Well then Gareth, here's hoping you don't find yourself doing an impression of a lollipop on the end of a riot baton in a Qatari prison cell ;D .
If he does speak his mind he will get people's respect but also his backside handed to him
Maddison subbed off, hamstring i believe, no idea how bad. That's rotten luck potentially.
Southgate has said he will decide if he speaks or not, not Fifa in regards to any political statementsHe might well do…but it’ll be once we are out and he is back in Blighty….and he might be saying what he actually thinks, but it’ll look like a smokescreen if we fail early ?
Been watching on Facebook the embarrassing attempt by the Qataries showing fake England fans. Truly laughable. Interviewing a 'fan' claiming 'England have a great back line'. I think someone one stated they asked a 'fan' who was their favourite English player and the answer was Steven Gerrard ;D.Not just England fans, but a selection of nations. The organisers deserve this tournament to flop. I fully expect to see these stand-ins at some games. You can spot them a mile off. Pathetic!
Not just England fans, but a selection of nations. The organisers deserve this tournament to flop. I fully expect to see these stand-ins at some games. You can spot them a mile off. Pathetic!
Southgate has said he will decide if he speaks or not, not Fifa in regards to any political statementsJust watched a clip of Matt Le Tissier he summed up Southgate perfectly , would Southgate be so stupid as to upset his paymasters and offer an honest opinion on this corrupt World Cup not a chance .
Been watching on Facebook the embarrassing attempt by the Qataries showing fake England fans. Truly laughable. Interviewing a 'fan' claiming 'England have a great back line'. I think someone one stated they asked a 'fan' who was their favourite English player and the answer was Steven Gerrard ;D.
The truest sign of fakery.
Benzema injured in training. Out for the tourney apparently.
England team confirmed as one that was leaked.
Do I now get ITK status? ;D
Ridiculous. Sterling, Maguire, Mount all very very lucky to be on the plane let alone be first choices based on performances at club level this season !
I think it depends on the formation. I've never seen Maguire play poorly for England yet looks bad at Man Utd. I believe he's like a better version of Bartley where a basic back 4 with little responsibility on the ball helps him, whereas getting him to play from the back or in a back 3 makes him look poor. He certainly did no wrong today.
What good is Grealish hes on hi backside for almost everytime he has the ball and mostly going backwards to our defensive players the only time he could be dangerous is if hes in the penalty box then go down
Also his goal was on a plate if i had been the striker who cut it back for him i would have gone for goal myself
His celebration after his goal, please dont get me started on that, is he a simpleton or what?
What good is Grealish hes on hi backside for almost everytime he has the ball and mostly going backwards to our defensive players the only time he could be dangerous is if hes in the penalty box then go downApparently he promised a lad who is ill he would do it for him
Also his goal was on a plate if i had been the striker who cut it back for him i would have gone for goal myself
His celebration after his goal, please dont get me started on that, is he a simpleton or what?
What good is Grealish hes on hi backside for almost everytime he has the ball and mostly going backwards to our defensive players the only time he could be dangerous is if hes in the penalty box then go downNot a fan are you ?
Also his goal was on a plate if i had been the striker who cut it back for him i would have gone for goal myself
His celebration after his goal, please dont get me started on that, is he a simpleton or what?
What good is Grealish hes on hi backside for almost everytime he has the ball and mostly going backwards to our defensive players the only time he could be dangerous is if hes in the penalty box then go down
Also his goal was on a plate if i had been the striker who cut it back for him i would have gone for goal myself
His celebration after his goal, please dont get me started on that, is he a simpleton or what?
That’s a poor post liver, I expected better from you to be honest
Did you? Really? :o
On the game, I felt we looked handy. Opposition were what they were, but we never looked like they’d stifle us which was always the worry. We have so much attacking talent it’s frightening, just need to make sure we continue to use it as we did in that game. Praying he does not revert back to 5 at the back at any stage, particularly when Walker is fit, defence is our weakest suit so play on the front foot
Really Fritz, I do
The post was just moaning about Grealish, how easy his goal was, and his ‘celebration’ for a child with cerebral palsy.
It’s easy to point out how easy he goes down, and that is true, but we once had a player called Periera who hit the deck pretty quickly too
I meant were you really shocked at a post like that coming from Liverbaggie? His opinions expressed in the past suggested to me that is exactly the sort of post I would expect from him.
I had seen the video before the tournament on Twitter where he had met with the lad, Finley, who requested he did that celebration and fully support him doing it. Strangely enough, ever since he left the Villa, I have truly warmed to our Jack ;D
No idea why Liver would be criticising him being chopped down by Iranian players who were scared of him running at them directly and committing men which, while we have the likes of Maguire on the pitch, gives us a great advantage at the many set pieces he wins.
I thought Rice was the weakest link yesterday. His passing wasn’t too good and several times his first touch was awful ball just bouncing off him .
Anyone explained to Southgate that a draw does NOT guarantee progression
It pretty much does though. He’s a cowardly manager.
Not guaranteed though. Totally agree Southgate is a coward however.
Southgate too reliant on players like Henderson, Sterling, Mount and even Rashford, players who have been good for him but are no longer performing and are only there through loyalty.
Phil Foden plays regularly for arguably the best side in world football but can't get minutes for Southgate. Surely he should be ahead of a few of those players by now.
Also a lack of luck with injuries and players development stalling. It's hurt our depth at this tournament. I was hoping players like Delap, Sancho, Skipp, Elliott, Smith Rowe and the disgraced Greenwood would now have been in and around the squad but instead we are left with a thinner set of options.
We're near enough qualified now, but if we play likebthat vs Wales then a last 16 exit to the Netherlands or Equador beckons.
Southgate is the massive hindrance he always has been and always will be.
He knows no one will ever pay him anything near the salary we do and will continue to milk it as long as he can.
Southgate is the massive hindrance he always has been and always will be.
He knows no one will ever pay him anything near the salary we do and will continue to milk it as long as he can.
Worth saying, this is the 5th game in the last 8 since March where we have failed to score. 1 win and 3 losses, including the 2 worst performances I've seen under Southgate in Hungary and then again tonight.
Southgate must know this. Surely he looks to shake things up now, else his England career is in danger of peetering out. He has done an incredible job getting us to the last 4 of a tournament 3 times, but it would be a waste not to take advantage this year, mid season when players aren't knackered and with a set of players who even now are still packed full of talent.
Hopefully we see a change of shape next game.
I fear you are correct, but it's his own career death sentence. Surely there is no way the FA stick with Southgate if we go out early, not after our poor form this last 12 months. Too much potential in this set of players to waste another cycle.
Everybody very keen to pin the blame on the manager and yet he wasn’t the one who missed chances , nor did he fail to find a teammate with a 5 yard pass , or run up a blind alley when a comfortable pass was available . Yes a more progressive coach may get more in terms of performance out of these but win it with this lot I don’t think so
I don’t agree it’s about money. I think as a man he’s got principles and I have no reason to question his integrity. That’s a cheap shot IMO.
He's not a Steve Bruce 'come for the payoff' type but who do you think will pay him what we do?
Its not a cheap shot. He's a coward
If he drags the team to quarter finals or more he doesn't look like a poor manager. He's a manager of public expectations regardless of how well we should do.
In short he does the least acceptable to prolong his pay.
I believe he's on 5-7m here. Who do you think will pay him that?
I've just seen Southgates post match comments. Bit baffled to be honest.
Rumours Henderson replacing Bellingham. Not quite the change I had envisaged.
I guess Southgate has earned the right to do things on his terms and how he sees it, but with 1 win in 8, it's disappointing not to see him being a bit more radical than that. Bellingham is arguably the one elite level youngster we have. Henderson is a 32 year old premier league squad player.
what a bore fest that game was, southgate will cost us again, just like in the final last year
Rumours Henderson replacing Bellingham. Not quite the change I had envisaged.
I guess Southgate has earned the right to do things on his terms and how he sees it, but with 1 win in 8, it's disappointing not to see him being a bit more radical than that. Bellingham is arguably the one elite level youngster we have. Henderson is a 32 year old premier league squad player.
Rumours Henderson replacing Bellingham. Not quite the change I had envisaged.
I guess Southgate has earned the right to do things on his terms and how he sees it, but with 1 win in 8, it's disappointing not to see him being a bit more radical than that. Bellingham is arguably the one elite level youngster we have. Henderson is a 32 year old premier league squad player.
About right.
I would expect Mr Imagination to set up not to lose.
Solid with a couple of flashes of excellence, I would sub rashford with freakish coming onRashfords been poor IMO, Grealish would cause them more problems, hopefully get him om on 60 mins
Rashfords been poor IMO, Grealish would cause them more problems, hopefully get him om on 60 mins
Rashfords been poor IMO, Grealish would cause them more problems, hopefully get him om on 60 minsAs I said tel I’m off, now get kane off 😁
Wales goalkeeper having a mare.
We will beat Senegal, some of our players are stepping up, looking better after USA game grest performance tonightIt definitely isn't
Next up is france assuming they get through
Mbappe v walker, no problem eh?
Is it coming home, maybe
OK Wales outclassed, predictably. Wales will wish they could start this competition all over again and play with more game plan and energy against USA and Iran. Been 2nd best against all 3 sides so can't have any grumbles to be leaving at this stage.
England are well in the shake-up.
Correct. Wales were talking about stopping England qualifying but forgot about USA and Iran. Got what they deserved.
It was their world cup final last night, England A v England BThat's not statistically true - Bale, Ramsey, Ben Davis, Joe Allen, Danny Ward, Neco Williams, Joe Rodon, Roberts, Colwill, Wilson all Welsh and all on the field last night at some stage. Hennesey also Welsh. James and Ampadu qualify through Welsh parents which is pretty decent grounds for playing. You don't have to sound like Max Boyce to be Welsh. There are some others who qualify through the extended rules at work admittedly.
Most of their team are English anyway and only qualify for Wales because their grannies used to have a coal fire
That's not statistically true - Bale, Ramsey, Ben Davis, Joe Allen, Danny Ward, Neco Williams, Joe Rodon, Roberts, Colwill, Wilson all Welsh and all on the field last night at some stage. Hennesey also Welsh. James and Ampadu qualify through Welsh parents which is pretty decent grounds for playing. You don't have to sound like Max Boyce to be Welsh. There are some others who qualify through the extended rules at work admittedly.
I think I read that 16 of the Welsh 26 were born in Wales. Pretty good for a country of that size really. I suspect most countries have at least a couple of players born outside the nation they represent.Yes sure you're right there.
Yes sure you're right there.
Trust me to be awkward but I think players should only be able to play for the country in which they were born.
If you are born in England you're English. Never mind ancestry , if you go back far enough there would be no European teams.
It's an interesting view. Most developed, western countries (with one notable exception) do not follow this view, also know as jus soli (right of the soil).
The exception is the United States. If you're born in the states, you have the right to citizenship under the 14th Amendment. You could just be on holiday, or even on a layover from a flight through America, but you'd be able to apply for citizenship.
Jus sanguinis (right of blood) is generally how many countries operate. It varies by country, but usually if you have a parent of one country, the child of that parent can claim citizenship.
Many countries practice a bit of both. The US for example, as well as allowing jus soli, also says that the child of an American born abroad can be given US citizenship.
You'd have thought it would be so complicated, eh?
It shouldn't be complicated though should it? It's made complicated by human beings and man made laws.
Like most things if you strip it right down to basics it's quite simple, if you are born in Italy (random example) then you are Italian. Easy and factually correct.
No?
Going back to our performances to date, I dont think we can be anything but pleased to have qualified with 7 points out of a possible 9. Despite some of the gloom, and anti Southgate comments, we are doing fine in my view.. Here's hoping it continues 8)
We are doing fine. If you take it in isolation, drawing with the US was not a big issue, and they are a decent side. However if we are going to look at group stages for validation, we are never likely to see an issue unless we have real disaster.
Southgate could win a major tournament. The last two have proven it as we were a bit of good fortune away from doing so. However does he give us the best chance? I don't think so and I expect when we come up against a challenge, we will be found wanting again.
Trust me to be awkward but I think players should only be able to play for the country in which they were born.Trouble is you'd get the farcical situation that Yorkshire County Cricket club had - fathers rushing their heavily pregnant wives back into the county so they would be eligible to play for Yorkshire. Think we've moved on a bit from that with people moving around the country and world for work and other things.
If you are born in England you're English. Never mind ancestry , if you go back far enough there would be no European teams.
It shouldn't be complicated though should it? It's made complicated by human beings and man made laws.
Like most things if you strip it right down to basics it's quite simple, if you are born in Italy (random example) then you are Italian. Easy and factually correct.
No?
Trouble is you'd get the farcical situation that Yorkshire County Cricket club had - fathers rushing their heavily pregnant wives back into the county so they would be eligible to play for Yorkshire. Think we've moved on a bit from that with people moving around the country and world for work and other things.
Have enjoyed reading the views on this. Not a criticism here Atomic, just posing a question, if an African elephant is brought to a zoo here in England and has an offspring, is that now an English elephant? I think place of birth is far too simplistic personally.
I agree that some of the current rules, such as the ones johnnycash has referenced are far too easy to manipulate however place of birth for me isn't right. I'm from Cypriot heritage with my grandparents coming to England in the 50s. I would feel equally proud to represent England or Cyprus; growing up and still to this day Cypriot culture and family are a big part of my life, I can speak Greek and because I wasn't born in Cyprus, it doesn't feel right to me that I'd be ineligible to play for Cyprus (moot point as I'm definitely not international grade at anything!).
It's a complicated subject matter that's for sure, I'm not sure what the rules should be but I'd say somewhere between country of birth and citizenship for being in a country for 5 years.
Have enjoyed reading the views on this. Not a criticism here Atomic, just posing a question, if an African elephant is brought to a zoo here in England and has an offspring, is that now an English elephant? I think place of birth is far too simplistic personally.
I agree that some of the current rules, such as the ones johnnycash has referenced are far too easy to manipulate however place of birth for me isn't right. I'm from Cypriot heritage with my grandparents coming to England in the 50s. I would feel equally proud to represent England or Cyprus; growing up and still to this day Cypriot culture and family are a big part of my life, I can speak Greek and because I wasn't born in Cyprus, it doesn't feel right to me that I'd be ineligible to play for Cyprus (moot point as I'm definitely not international grade at anything!).
It's a complicated subject matter that's for sure, I'm not sure what the rules should be but I'd say somewhere between country of birth and citizenship for being in a country for 5 years.
If the elephant is born in Dudley zoo then it's a yam yam regardless of where mummy and daddy elephant came from. It has a straight choice Albion or the Dingles, no one born in Dudley should support anyone else. OK, Walsall but who's going to choose them?Elephants are very intelligent and I'm yet to meet a single one who was born in Dudley zoo who supports the dingles.
I accept it may be a bit simplistic to go solely on birthplace. Maybe you should be able to play for whatever country you live in under the age five, something like that?
If the elephant is born in Dudley zoo then it's a yam yam regardless of where mummy and daddy elephant came from. It has a straight choice Albion or the Dingles, no one born in Dudley should support anyone else. OK, Walsall but who's going to choose them?
I accept it may be a bit simplistic to go solely on birthplace. Maybe you should be able to play for whatever country you live in under the age five, something like that?
Bellingham's already world class isn't he.
Bellingham's already world class isn't he.
Think any of the 4 from England, Brazil, France and Argentina could lift the trophy. There is no standout team at this WC for me.
The winners of the England v France game are favourites for me.
The overall standard is pretty average to say the least.
Better than Robbo was at 19, which is phenomenally good
We will agree to disagree here.
Me too. Robson could do it all. Score goals, be the best player at left back, at centre half. Bellingham is a very good player but Robson was betteris that because he was so good or because the standard was comparatively lower at that time?
is that because he was so good or because the standard was comparatively lower at that time?
Me too. Robson could do it all. Score goals, be the best player at left back, at centre half. Bellingham is a very good player but Robson was better
You'll never settle generational comparisons. Nostalgia seems to make everyone better and it seems like nobody can possibly be as good as many 60's/70's/80's players. Personally I find it hard to believe footballers peaked 50 years ago and haven't been better at any time since. Particularly when most older players will freely admit how much foreigner players increased the skills levels, fitness and professionalism when they came over in the 90's.
Also, I don't think I'd be wrong to say the top division in England must have been made up mostly of Brits in the 60's and 70's for instance. So if you took all the foreigners out now, how many brits on prem benches would be in first teams and how many brits in the championship would be in prem squads? That would obviously mean the quality was lower and then your current England players would look better still because the skill gap would be wider.
However, Robson was the best midfielder in Europe along with Platini. Is Bellingham really better than Busquets or Modric or Pedri or Pogba etc. He's not even an automatic choice for England yet and how do his stats stack up? Is he more versatile than Robson? No.
Think any of the 4 from England, Brazil, France and Argentina could lift the trophy. There is no standout team at this WC for me.Holland getting better every game. Although van Gaal 's system, not exactly free flowing 'total football', it seems to be working.
Holland getting better every game. Although van Gaal 's system, not exactly free flowing 'total football', it seems to be working.
I think Holland are an ok team but for me they are outside that pack of 4 personally. I'd have Spain as my 5th team then Holland behind them i guess.
Personally, my top 4 is France, Brazil, Spain and Argentina, with us sitting on the fringes of that group (alongside Italy, Netherlands, Croatia, Belgium, Portugal and Denmark). Until I see us beating other top sides regularly then I don't put us in the big 4 bracket.
is that because he was so good or because the standard was comparatively lower at that time?
Heard earlier that Southgate has had 24 matches against teams ranked in top 10.
We have won……. 4.
Heard earlier that Southgate has had 24 matches against teams ranked in top 10.
We have won……. 4.
Its might not be Southgate, as I posted in the world cup thread a few days ago, our history is littered with poor results vs the top sides. It might be a big of mental weakness, it might be that the pressure to beat the best has created a cross generational mental block or it could be that even now, the players we are developing still lack the variety and technical level the other top nations are able to develop, but I'd atleast like to know either way if a different manager might be able to get this talented generation to find that next level.
He has been a brilliant servant whatever happens.
i cant get excited with England anymore, maybe sacking Southgate this year will improve things
i cant get excited with England anymore, maybe sacking Southgate this year will improve things
Refs been looking for a chance to do them a favour since the penalty ! Doesnt excuse how poor we’ve been in second half though !
If only he played that side in the world cup and didn't bottle it.
We did basically play that side though, the only changes were Phillips for Henderson, and Grealish for Foden. Neither of which could be said to be upgrades based on yesterdays performance.Foden finishes that chance.
Despite my above post, I don't think there's really much evidence Southgate did anything wrong in the France game. His selection was fine, England were on the front foot for most the game, France just edged the big moments, whereas the pressure got to Kane. Not really on the manager there.
An impressive international break, puts us in a commanding position in arguably the toughest group of the lot (the less said about the ridiculously unbalanced groups, the better). It's even better when you consider players like Rashford, Foden, Mount, James and Shaw were missing for some or all of the games.Rashford has got plenty of legs left …
In more positive news, England under 21s beat France under 21s 4-0 in a friendly at the weekend. Noni Madueke who recently joined Chelsea for £30m scored 1 and assisted 2 more after coming in as a sub. The side contained the likes of Djed Spence, exciting Chelsea/Brighton defender Levi Colwill, Harvey Elliott, Oliver Skipp, Morgan Gibbs-White, Emile Smith-Rowe and Cameron Archer, while on the bench we had the likes of Madueke, Cole Palmer, Jacob Ramsey, and Man City prodigy Rico Lewis among others. It's a far cry from the days where Luke Moore and Ishmael Miller would be playing in draws with Poland.
The downside is who was missing. Folarin Balogun appears to have decided to sit this one out, apparantly due to injury but I have some doubts. He is unhappy at not being called up to the first team and is understood to be in talks with the USA who are "aggressively courting" his services from what Southgate has said. Behind Harry Kane, we have very little in the pipeline up front. Liam Delap and Mason Greenwood have fell away and it leaves us with Balogun as the obvious hope. If he does join the USA it will be bad news for our chances going forward.
Eddie Nketia would be ahead of Balogun surely !Kane
Eddie Nketia would be ahead of Balogun surely !
Kane
Rashford
Toney
Nketia
Abraham
Wilson
Should be ok for 18 months ??
Folarin Balogun has officially switched allegiance to play for the USA. One of the slightly more farcical international switches given the fact he was born there while his parents were on holiday, would have been a bit more understanding had he chosen Nigeria.
Leaves England with a bit of a gaping hole appearing once Kane retires.
Only watched the second half of the U21s. On that second half performance I feel we can consider ourselves very fortunate to have progressed to the semis.
The u21s best Israel 3-0 to get to the final. At present it’ll be vs Spain who are beating Ukraine 3-1.
I didn’t see it but stats make the England win look quite dominant. We also missed a penalty in the first half. Finals Saturday at 5pm.
I'll have a gander at the final on the UEFA channel..... provided I remember we're on.
Trafford saves!
What a team to beat Aussied on their home ground, if thry ein on Sunday and i think they will, they go fown in history as true greats, outplsyed Australia, brilliant goals, love Hemp
judging by your spelling, you've been smoking it! :D
that's a joke by the way.
Anyone under the age of 55 is thinking I wonder who Bill and Ben are and why they like weed.
Bill and Ben liked "Weed".
Another final, another chance to continue the growing winning culture in English football. That's the biggest positive of all of this for me. Hemp sensational again.
Attention has to turn to Sarina Weigman now though.
Took a second division Dutch side to a cup final win, then had a league and Cup double at Ado Den Haag.
Takes over an unfancied Dutch side and they win the Euros, following it up with a World Cup final loss 2 years later. Next tournament, another underperforming side in England, wins the Euros, and onto her 4th tournament, a world cup, another final. 4 out of 4. No manager I know of in world football has that sort of record in the modern game.
At some point, a top mens side are going to take the gamble on a manager who has a quite freakish record now. 6 jobs, 6 major successes.
I think if a manager is able to achieve incredible results at every step of the ladder, and 4 major tournament finals in a row, that probably does need to be looked at and respected. I'm not 100% sure how to judge managing in the womens game. I understand players would struggle in the mens game to biological reasons, but managing at the top level of the Women's game and at non league level strike me as having differences in proffesionality, pressure and in scope.
As I say, at some point, a record like that is going to get too hard to ignore for a club like Brentford, Ajax, or even maybe the Netherlands mens national team.
I think some are getting way too carried away here. The depth in quality in the men's game is far greater than in the women's. The gap between the best ranked and worst ranked side in the Women's World Cup is enormous compared to the men's. The Lionesses are only able to beat what's in front of them, but the men face far tougher opposition earlier in the tournament.
Dyou know what i find appalling? Its the fact that neither Mr Sunak nor Prince William, he of FA Cchairman? Dont think its worth going ove to OZ to cheer on the lionesses! I think its insulting to the womens game and frankly quite an insult to me im embarrassed that our so called elite cant be bothered to support the women, i bet if we win and return home theyll be all over them with praise and honours its pathetic, also ive seen no england flags, bunting etc in the streets or supermarkets no lioness tea shirts for little girls who would wear them with pride and joy, shockingSurprisingly people like Prince William and the Prime Minister have quite busy schedules William normally goes on holiday this time of year when the kids have finished school like many other Brits!
What about the King popping over to support them he loves oz, i really am annoyed that they cant be bothered to jump on a plane for a couple of days, i bet king Carlos of Spain or their leaders will be, would surprise me if Starmer went just to get the jump on his opponents
There's a lot of republican sentiment in parts of Oz and the royal family would not want to make matters worse by going over and supporting Lionesses. Politics eh?
After listening to an Aussie podcast, one guy seemed to think they were subjected to some 'rough play' from our lot, and it would forever rile him. He should try living with the 'hand of god' haunting him.
I'm not saying she is a slam dunk to translate to a top mens side, but with her track record, somebody is going to want to test the water at some stage. My hunch would be a Dutch side, maybe even their international men's side. It will be fascinating to see.
The telegraph reporting tonight that the Dutch FA are considering Weigman for their men's national team side.
I'd genuinely love to know Louis van Gaal's thoughts on this. Could prove very entertaining.I think van Gaal's thoughts are best summed up by his comment on taking the Dutch manager job. "well if I don't take it, who else is there?"
The draw in Ukraine was a decent enough result at the point the whistle bleeding, but with Italy failing to beat Macedonia tonight, we are in a really strong position to qualify.
We have 3 games left, an easy win vs Malta sandwiched in between tough games vs Italy at home and Macedonia away, but you would think 4 points should see us get one of the two automatic qualfiication spots. Ukraine would then need to win all 4 of their games to go above us, which would mean we would qualify anyway as that would see Italy dropping 6 points.
Provided we can avoid defeat in one of those 2 tougher fixtures, we should be going to Germany next summer.
See mozza is part of jock coaching staff, I thought he was still with us
What a display by Bellingham, we must build the England team around him for the next 3 world cups
Really disappointed with Scotland, never got going really but England played very well.
Never watched it, a pointless excersise to me
I watched it, I just find it odd how such a talented squad of players churn out such a borefest.
I’m convinced it’s because we don’t have an elite level manager. I thank Southgate for nearly bringing us success but we’re no closer to winning anything than we were with any other manager in my 39 years.
Someone that releases the handbrake and gets the team playing to their talents will win something. Imagine Pep with this lot. Wouldn’t happen but just a hypothetical.
bellingham will be the key to us winning it
Kyle walker will take some replacing when the time comes, I assume that Trippier moves over and Luke Shaw comes back in.
I really don't like Terence Arnold as a defender, so hope Southgate doesnt bow to the media on that one.
I agree about Henderson / Kalvin Phillips, neither inspire confidence, of the two, I prefer Henderson though.
A standout young english centre half would be a god send though
Apart from those concerns it looks extremely positive, all the more so with a talent like Bellingham to call on.
Maguire is a very uninspiring player, last might he did a Bartley and passed 90% of the time along the back; he can't trust himself to get the ball to one of our midfielders.I would have Tomori ahead of Maguire all the time, midfield is an area that may be problematic with Gallagher, Henderson and Phillips not offering much. We need a really good Central midfielder to allow Bellingham to make these forward runs and not get exposed at the same time. Rice is the obvious choice but blows not and cold and lacks pace.
Yesterday evening we had two players on the left of our defence who favour the right foot. Colwill looks a far better prospect at LCB or LB. Should have been him and Dunk last night. Gueye made some important defensive contributions when he came on. With such talent to call on why is Maguire there?
It's also a disgrace to pick Phillips, if he wanted to be in the England team more than collecting a huge pay-check for sitting on the bench, he'd be agitating for a move.
It seems that Southgate wouldn't want to do something so cruel as dropping his favourites.
I'm still failing to see the effectiveness of Grealish yet he gets a cheer when he comes on for the last knocking of a game.
Given Trippier is the same age as Walkerz I don't think he's the long term solution.
If Reece James can stay fit he'd definitely be in contention.
Were due a win in the euros and i think we will win itI’m not sure that we are due a win,but we certainly do have enough talent to do so.
Currently the best team in europe, a bit of a masterclass in finishing last night all goals brilliantly taken
People give Southgate way too hard a time, he's not perfect but no manager is. The England team is good but not the incredible team people make it out to be. The centre back situation whichever way you cut it is not that great. Then the biggest problem with England remains the central midfield and lack of a controlling player. There just isn't a particularly desirable player there. It's a problem for England and one that usually rears its heads in tournaments. The usual cries of "release the handbrake" are always fairly naive. You can't have this version of attacking Bellingham and also think any other manager would be pairing him with Maddison, or TAA will be holding with Rice. That's just trying to cram all the attacking players into the side which isn't serious stuff. Hodgson actually did try that back in 2014 to horrible results, although fans quickly forgot him doing everything they wanted.
Right now its still probably the second best squad in Europe, after France, but its not that much better than Portugal, Spain, and Germany who would all be pretty even games.
It's pretty funny to see Germany mentioned as weak - they have been an actually poorly managed team - their actual players are very good. That's the difference between a team who's actually been poorly managed in recent years and England, who have not been poorly managed.
They didn’t have to extend themselves in any way and, as is often the case in those circumstances, you get a boring watch.But that is normal in most matches. A winger/wingback has space in front of him, but 9 times out of 10 he will pass back to the centre back
Was barely a twinkle in My Dad's eye during Euro 96 he was 16 turning 17, but I have watched the reruns during Covid on TV and there was something eventhough I knew how our journey would end that felt so good, the whole country backing the team no splits, no abuse when Southgate missed, no Negativity, just everyone enjoying the occasion, the Football we played was beautiful, it would look at place in Today's era and my dad said against the Dutch was either the Best performance or half he had ever seen from an England Team. Yet again the 90's did seem a fantastic era and I like the 90's despite not being there. But When I watched it I was amazed by how good the Football England played was. RIP Terry Venebles the man who gave everyone alive in England in 1996 pride and optimism for 3 weeksIt was beautiful the country was alive with football fever and a real belief this was our year Skinners song it's Coming Home only added to the mix, alas we all know how it turned out but it was geat while it lasted.
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It was beautiful the country was alive with football fever and a real belief this was our year Skinners song it's Coming Home only added to the mix, alas we all know how it turned out but it was geat while it lasted.It was amazing how everyone ( football fans and non football fans alike) got caught up in the emotional side of that tournament. Beautiful football in beautiful weather, thank for the memories El Tel and RIP
What up with Nike with the New England Kit why would you even consider changing the flag of Saint George , wouldn’t do it with any other nation,Simple really, if you don't like it don't buy it, if they are left with loads of inventory they will learn
Also how the hell can they justify the prices they’re charging for them , supposedly a cost of living crisis
Just got to say that if we dont shoot, we wont score a goal.
I thought it was a pre season type game, whats the point really?
On the talent point, interesting to see the names in the England under 2's and 20's sides this weekend, especially given the amount of injuries in the senior sides and promotions of youngsters (Mainoo, Gordon, Branthwaite).I’d pay good money to watch the under 2’s. Do they play on a regular sized pitch? :D
Harvey Elliot got 2 goals, a regular now for Liverpool and another in the James Maddison mould, the exciting 18 year old Archie Gray also managed an assist, someone to rival Kobee Mainoo at the heart of England's future midfield. Rico Lewis and Nonr Madurke other stand out names in the starting line up, Dortkubds Bynoe-Gittens and Bournemouth's Alex Scott getting minutes from the bench, while Liverpool regular Jarrell Quansah didn't even get off the bench.
England under 20's featured Newcastle pair Lewis Hall and Lewis Miley - in another era they would have been with the under 21's , alongside Liverpool's Bobby Clark, Ireogbunam and our Tom Fellows.
There is so much depth coming through now, there really is very little excuse not to challenge for honours over the next ten years.
I’d pay good money to watch the under 2’s. Do they play on a regular sized pitch? :DForget it mate. Some of them could barely walk by the end of the match. Come to think of it, some of them could barely walk at the beginning ;D
Forget it mate. Some of them could barely walk by the end of the match. Come to think of it, some of them could barely walk at the beginning ;DBeing as most games seem to be at walking pace, I don't think crawling pace is going to be entertaining. And I dread to think what the hissy fits would be like.
Being as most games seem to be at walking pace, I don't think crawling pace is going to be entertaining. And I dread to think what the hissy fits would be like.
England players have struggled for decades against the top nations, usually down to a lack of variety in the players we produce. I'm not sure if you can honestly say that with this squad though, there are several players now who look comfortable in possession and we have strong options in most positions. The fact we are still losing more than we win vs the top nations may well be on the manager this time. If we don't win the Euro's, or at the very least make the final having beaten top opposition, then I hope we say thank you and goodbye to Southgate.
This is an incredible generation of players with more still coming through, it would be a massive shame to waste it on a manager who isn't quite amongst the elite.
This is by no means the best england side in my life time but it is relative to the other nations. Think back to that 2002 and 2006 world cup the golden generation we were still comfortably miles worse than the Italians, French, Germans, Brazilians and Argentines possibly even the Dutch.
Now by relative terms arguably besides the French we are the best side on paper. [I know we don't play on paper] a lot of the big hitters the Germans and the Italians don't have the persdonel they have had over past years and even the south American giants aren't all that. Don't think a good side has won the world cup since Spain 2010 the last few it's all been very marginal
Edit: to the point we are not the best ever but we are relatively and Southgate is blowing our chances at using our slight advantage. Next world cup has even more sides and more knock out so becomes even harder to win. He should have gone after he fluffed it v Croatia in world cup and if anybody had any doubts he should have gone after surrendering a 1-0 lead to Italy that was awful
This kind of proves my point about ignorance of the wider footballing world. That Croatia team had Brozovic - Modric - Rakitic in midfield, not one of England's midfielders in the squad was even close to their quality on the ball. You have that level of disparity in midfield you're going to be in trouble. But somehow, because its Croatia, and we're England, it was a crime we didn't beat the better team on paper.
The Italy game is a bit similar. It's not that we couldn't have won, or couldn't have done better but we lost on penalties to a team on a world record undefeated run with a midfield that was far superior to ours. You have the far superior midfield, you probably control the game. That's just the reality of football.
And again losing to a top ranked side. I would hate to see his record against higher ranked opposition
Didn't he sign a new contract not too long ago?
Expires in December but rumours he’s getting an extension.
Actually thought England played ok against Brazil, and very well against Belgium personally.
My only gripe is that I would have given Branthwaite and Palmer minutes.
What abomination?
Another hat trick by Cole Palmer tonight puts Chelsea 3 -0 up against Everton with 29 minutes of the game gone.
What a talent. Can Southgate find a way to use it?
I mean he can pick up to start with. But Southgate disappoints for me with how he uses our talent.
Thankfully Palmer is making it nigh on impossible not to take him.
Luckily, a lot of his favourites like Phillips and Rashford are in terrible form so he will have a job on to justify selecting them if he does
This is Southgate we are talking about though. Loyal is his middle name sadly
It’s true, but the form of some of our more fringe players under him is frighteningly good.
Another hat trick by Cole Palmer tonight puts Chelsea 3 -0 up against Everton with 29 minutes of the game gone.
What a talent. Can Southgate find a way to use it?
Doubt it. If the likes of Foden/Saka/Bellingham look ordinary for England then so will he.
Another hat trick by Cole Palmer tonight puts Chelsea 3 -0 up against Everton with 29 minutes of the game gone.
What a talent. Can Southgate find a way to use it?
i very much doubt it, hes got too many favourites. harry Maguire etc. hopefully its Southgates last tournament
Do you mean get rid of arguably the most successful England manager apart from Sir Alf?
I say give him until after the Euros, if he doesnt win it, then part company with him.
With this group of players he shpuld win it.
Trouble is he must sort out the central defenders partnership, and gk.
If he can get thst sorted we should win it.
Manager created a team in his own image, Dour, organised, fit, lacking in flair and creativity.
Used to be known as "the english way".
Most successful teams have been a marriage of "the english way" with a sprinkling of highly talented players, or supporting a generational talent (Pele / Maradona / Messi).
If we look at the Argentine side, you would hardly call McAllister / Otamendi / Fernandez / Rodrigo DePaul ...... world beaters, but they were, Largely due to Messi & Di Maria
Gareth needs to choose some "quality" and stick with it, personally I would go Saka / Foden / Palmer.
Grealish / Gordon / Sterling / Bowen might make my squad but unlikely to play. Rashford definitely would not
At the moment I think Southgate and most fans picks goes Foden left / Bellingham Central and Saka right. Foden gets shunted left probably unfairly but because he's more comfortable out there than Bellingham.
However Foden, Palmer, Saka would allow us to drop Bellingham deeper to play central with Rice, which I think would work really well. Rice Bellingham central has legs, power, pace, bite and quality and you've got balance between one who naturally wants to be more defensive and sit, and another who wants to press forward.