All these comments about England playing well

Yet I don't recall any sustained period of pressure in the second half. In fact, I'd say it was quite even after half-time, which is quite an indictment given Russia's obvious lack of quality and creativity. I wouldn't be at all surprised if both Wales and Slovakia beat them.

Looking to the next match, I wish we had Slovakia instead of Wales. It was always going to be the high stakes game in this group given the geography, and now the pressure is accentuated with them on top of the group. I'd start by picking players on form rather than reputation, but we all know that's not Hodgson's style.

Posted By: King, Jun 11, 22:40:31