Harry Kane and Jamie Vardy have both had exceptional seasons.
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The diamond shape Hodgson rolled out against Portugal did not seem a happy fit for the 11 selected and something – or someone – may have to give before the Russian Federation match on June 11.
“Of course we would have wanted a few more chances and few more shots at goal, but it’s something we are still working on so there is no reason for anyone to get too downhearted. It is about all of us, not three of us”. Whether it’s tactics or set pieces or anything else. “We know teams will try and stop us and make it hard”.
“We can use that in the tournament”.
“So imagine how we’d be remembered if we could go one better and win it. It’s a challenge for us, and hopefully we can do it. In every game some people have a really good night, and I’m not prepared to stand here and criticise some players”.
“We are not trying to block players’ futures or transfers, but as far as we are concerned our ongoing theme is that England is England, your club is your club”. The horses and trainers came here from England in the 19th century and the relationship was built.
“If it’s within shooting distance then fine, but I’m not a big fan of our No. 9 taking free kicks from out wide and corners”, said Barnes, who played 79 times for England.
This time, Ronaldo’s knowing wink – caught on camera as Roo trudged off – made him an worldwide villain and sparked speculation that he and Rooney would never be able to play together again.
“I was always convinced that he would be a star for England and, inevitably, captain one day”.
It saw Portugal reduced to 10 men in the 36th minute, killing the match as a meaningful test as the friendly became a clash of attack versus defence. You have to be patient. Harry had seen his opportunity, I think if the referee had played on, we might have went on and scored.
“It’s a learning curve”.
For England’s sake, Roy Hodgson needs to find the right formation and personnel quickly and hope for the best that everything works out.
The Manchester United skipper added: “We need to understand and manage the game better – it is normal, that comes with experience”. When you play with that system, you need your strikers to split. “We’ve got time to analyse those things”.
He barely reacted when Bruno Alves kicked him in the head at Wembley – with the defender’s studs grazing the Tottenham man’s face.
Twelve minutes later Alves received a straight red card after catching Kane with a risky blow on the side of the head from his flying boot.
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“I’ve got a few scratches but obviously I got away with one there”.
