A good mate of mine is a West Ham, season ticket holder

and (I think) really knows his football (was a good player himself, and coaches kids).

Anyway, I know that he really rates Rice. Thinks he's looked quality ever since he's got in the team.

My complaint isn't really about particular individuals. I'm sure each of them merits a chance, on their own. It's the balance and approach I don't like. So much emphasis on pace and athleticism - as someone says below, fine for qualifiers, but always the same problems when we play teams that keep the ball.

I know it seems early, but I do feel like I've seen this film before. The Maddison never playing thing has echoes of Hoddle 30+ years ago. Talented ball-playing midfielder just doesn't fit into the England way of playing, and we suffer for it.

Posted By: Tricky Hawes, Nov 14, 13:00:58