Ovens on for the pizza

I’m nervous but feel positive. A 40-something year old follower of football. It’s been a bit of a famine as an England fan over the years. More lows than highs. Better recently. I would dearly love it if we win tonight. Dearly.

A better start than expected so far...

I was in the Olympic Stadium last night (only just got home!).

Magnificent venue with so much history, and the picture I took of the 1936 Roll of Honour on one of the two towers will be blown up, framed, and take pride of place in my study.

100m Lauf Owens U.S.A.
200m Lauf Owens U.S.A.

Gutted last night though, and just as gutted this morning.

Now that Gareth Southgate has resigned, I wonder how many of the TV pundits who were so critical of him will be applying for the job?

No, I didn't think so either.

Maybe they are smart enough to know their limitations! Ex English players (and I include Southgate) don't usually make good coaches.

asqwerth wrote: ↑Wed Jul 17, 2024 2:35 pm Maybe they are smart enough to know their limitations! Ex English players (and I include Southgate) don't usually make good coaches.

I disagree. He was a good coach. Just not a great one.

kev017 wrote: ↑Wed Jul 17, 2024 3:53 pm I disagree. He was a good coach. Just not a great one.

Agreed in a way. He took them to two Euro finals and a World Cup semifinal. But there will always be the thought that he had the resources to win one or more of those tournaments, but didn’t make best use of them.

I think he was more a good man manager than a coach. And his own top level coaching experience is rather limited. He had very talented players to work with, but (IMO) wasn't that good at getting the best out of them, or even at selecting the right players/subs for the defensive style he wished to play.

But I'll stop there. Football can be a very emotive subject, and obviously the English forum members will be feeling disappointed after the loss.