England have crashed out of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, to many of its fans very disappointed and even angered at this. It was a poor showing from England, whose defensive errors cost them games and only managed a single point in an uninspiring 0-0 draw with Costa Rica after they were already mathematically eliminated from the tournament. But, saying that, there were still some positives to take into the next tournament.
Roy Hodgson selected a balanced squad composed of the right qualities and ages and, unfortunately, had to miss out some players who if they were not injured, would have been very much involved in the England team. Players like Andros Townsend and Kyle Walker from Tottenham were sorely missed. Also, the injury to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain during the World Cup was a massive blow to England’s midfield talent as he really looked on form, and really made the opposition quake in their boots.
Perhaps, with fewer injuries England could have got out of the group? Or, perhaps it was because England could have shown a bit more fight and passion. Instead of being overshadowed by Uruguay and how important the match was, the players should have gave it their all and see how hard they could hit them early on. It was visible in some of the passes and clearances that the players made, the occasion seemed too big. Lack of confidence. This is quite understandable when many players in the team aren’t as experienced as others. The cool headed Steven Gerrard was one of the few players that seemed composed on the ball, yet his error to set up Luiz Suarez’ late winner did detract from his performance.
To get knocked out at the group stage, is rather unacceptable for a team of England’s apparent calibre. The team has really underachieved this World Cup. Maybe the heat is partly to blame, but Germany and the Netherlands are having a good World Cup despite the heat. So, any excuses to do with heat have to be abolished. Wayne Rooney hasn’t been hitting his cloud heights, something that he really hasn’t done in a World Cup, scoring his first against Uruguay with a simple tap in, and set up the other goal England scored against Italy. In that respect, Rooney has contributed to all of England’s massive total of two goals.
England showed that they have a plethora of fantastic youth players in Raheem Sterling, Ross Barkley and Jordan Henderson who all could become key players for the future of England. They will be vital players for Euro 2016. The teams these players have to face aren’t world beaters, for example, San Marino and Lithuania are two teams that if England can’t beat, then something is really wrong with the team. An easy group in comparison to other groups means that England should at least be able to get out of their group in the tournament, which makes Euro 2016 instantly a better performance than the World Cup this year.
So, lots to look forward to for the England fans, but it’s probably best they don’t look back.
England must improve, and surely will, in the next major international tournament.
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