The former England manager – commentating for Sky Sports News – was covering the Three Lion’s round of 16 tie with minnows Iceland last night (June 27).
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“Down the right-hand side Sturridge and Walker are causing all kinds of problems and with that Sterling is able to run across the face – like he did for the penalty – and is causing problems”.
McClaren’s reaction has, predictably, been lapped up by social media users, with many revelling in his misplaced confidence that England would dominate their opponents. It’s been the ideal response. “Keep dominating. Keep getting the pressure on the Iceland back four”.
But just seconds later, his mood dramatically changed.
Six-time England global Gordon Hill says his country’s exit at the hands of Iceland is one of their “most embarrassing” moments.
Iceland capitalised on England’s defensive shortcomings, equalizing in the sixth when Kari Arnason flicked on a long throw and Ragnar Sigurdsson volleyed in at the back post.
“All they have is the big boy up front, Sigurðsson, who really…”
The only sound he manages to utter, is a frustrated “Ooohhh”.
England fans were left only to lament their team’s performance.
ITV pundits Lee Dixon and Ian Wright pulled no punches, branding England’s players an “embarrassment”.
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Arnason said: “We all believed”. They move on to the quarterfinals, where France awaits them on Sunday in what is easily Iceland’s toughest ever challenge.
