Declan growing up but sadly England aren’t!

Let me be honest, I gave up on England winning anything in the 70s.

I was fortunate enough to see us win the World Cup in ’66 courtesy of Mooro, Hursty and Martin but it all went reels of cotton after that and has remained so ever since.

I had remained a fan of the home internationals against the three nations and last night reminded me that the noise levels from the fans are an indication that a return of the games would be a huge bonus for most fans.

However, sadly, what last night also demonstrated was that England take these games a little less seriously than the Scots who frankly were far the better team and created some outstanding chances.

The Southgate team appeared to believe – as has been the case so often in the past – that sideways and backwards passing is a favoured option even in the 80th minute and onwards when a game needs to be won.

Declan did ok but was one of those who favoured the sideways pass when I was hoping he may go on one of those rampaging forward runs which has recently become part of his game.

I didn’t understand the substitutions or the method of play we adopted and wasn’t as impressed with the 1-0 win over Croatia as some.

I’m delighted only that Declan is growing up into a fine international player and will one day tread in Mooro’s footsteps but beyond that I see little in this England team to give me any hope that I have got it wrong over the last 50 years.

Will win this tournament – I still believe in miracles but that’s what it will take i’m afraid …average side.