Can England Go All The Way?

It’s fair to say that England have very much had their ups and downs in the world of football, and after last nights disappointing result against the Belgians, the relentless optimism we had 24 hours ago after decimating football powerhouses Panama (snigger) last week, seems to have predictably disappeared once again, as we look towards our knock out match with Columbia in a few days time.

But it’s got to be said that although we lost, manager Southgate fielded what some would consider a weaker line up. Not surprising in the slightest, given that we were already through.

However if you asked most of the population last night who they’d rather face in the next round, I’m sure the majority would have wanted to face Japan, a relative minnow in the international footballing world, and first timers in the knock out stages.

Granted they beat Columbia in the groups, but I watched the game, and it was really decided by a red card. Until that point, I think Columbia would have won the game.

What Columbia also have over England is flair.

The Brazilians have been lighting up the world for donkeys years with their silky touches and fancy flicks, and neigbours Columbia also have players with the craft to make England look very ordinary. The likes of James, and Falcao can rip a defensive line in half with one pass.

But I wonder if it actually falls down to who wants it more….

Surely England have more desire to win their second world cup than any other team out there?

Is it our time? Can we do it? Is Southgate the man to lead us into football dominance and banish the ghost of his penalty miss which sent England packing all those years ago. I remember it well.

We have to have belief yes, but what we need is a ruthless edge that puts the fear into other nations, the way the likes of Germany, Brazil and Italy have done over the years with their numerous success stories.

They say the Premier League is the strongest in the world, yet we have no International success, and the European scene is completely dominated by Spanish teams. An international team, who still, despite their shakey start and managerial issues, strike the fear of God into most teams with their style and ability to hammer a team down.

Will football come home? Do we really have a chance?

I think we do.

Thanks for reading, and rather than my usual sign off, I’ll leave you with this….

COME ON ENGLAND!!!