Wow, what a difference a team makes.
Seriously, having a team that works together is so much better than having a team of prima donnas who don't. Leave out Steve Lampard, Phil Neville, and David Beckham and you have a much more dangerous team.
Who would've thunk?
Seriously, the 3-0 beating of Russia wasn't easy. They threatened a number of times - their left wing linkup and general play was very good. They are quick and inspired. And they were soundly beaten. The scoreline probably flatters England, if truth be told, but it was an excellent display of what a talented and inspired team can do playing together.
I would have put them against any team in the world on the day. I, for one, want exactly the same team to take the field through the Euro 2008 finals. The only difference might be the striker - hard not to play Wayne Rooney if he is fit and on his game. That said, who could sit Michael Owen if he continues to play as well as he has.
He may have lost a step but his tactical/positional nous is still with him. He seems to be in better places and not having to rely on his speed and turning off the shoulder of the defender as much.
I dislike Mclaren. But whether by accident or by design, one has to admit that he has played a very good team the last two outings.
Posted by artandscience at September 14, 2007 07:24 AM