England are out of the 2014 World Cup, failing at the first stage after Costa Rica’s shock win over the Italians made it mathematically impossible for England to qualify. It’s the Three Lions' worst performance since 1958 in the World Cup finals.
Ultimately, England didn’t have the quality to perform in Brazil. In the first game they managed to match the Italians but lacked the killer edge in a 2-1 defeat, and yesterday a very much lacklustre performance resulted in a 2-1 victory for Luis Suarez and Uruguay. For England it comes as a disappointment, as many believed the changing of the guard would improve England’s chances with the likes of Ross Barkley, Raheem Sterling and Luke Shaw all a part of the England setup. However, many have begun to back-track, suggesting it was unwise to leave out players such as John Terry and Ashley Cole.
The blame has been directed at Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney, but ultimately the fault is with Roy Hodgson, who got his tactics wrong in both games. Even so many have been quick to back Hodgson, such as Greg Dyke who expects the England boss to lead us in the 2016 European Championships. He also went on to say England can win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Hodgson himself will not resign; he will next address the media on Monday ahead of the final game for England, before they return home.
On Tuesday against Costa Rica - a formidable opponent it now seems - a glimmer of hope must be offered to show some signs of a future. The game could also be Frank Lampard’s and Gerrard’s last games for England - two of the last few of the golden generation.
For now we must enjoy the rest of the World Cup as so far it has been a very entertaining spectacle, and for England, well, there’s always next time.
