England v Isreal.

[bigtj]

Much better performance by England, but we need to do the same on Wednesday to ensure that the wheels are well and truely back on the wagon. Still think we will qualify, but not do much in the main competition.

[CraigC]

Seems they did do the same, with same result! Very impressive, two excellent performances, and most importantly creating bags of chances. Seems England can learn from Germany, picking the best team rather than the best set of individuals. Two matches without Beckham or Lampard and the best performances from England for half a decade.

Not going over the top, I'm a realist, but if we qualify then lose in a quarter-final or semi-final playing good effective football, that is preferable to England doing the same but boring everyone.

Oh yes, and well done to Scotland on a superb result - no danger of the tabloid press over-hyping Scotland to knock 'em down again, at least.

[bigtj]

Agree Craig another excellent result and certainly seems team plays as a better unit than when supposed superstars are present, maybe those chosen play with pride and gel far better by not having to bow to the ball always having to be passed via a central figure.

I don't think we're quite through the wood yet, though this week's performances have been 'adequate'.

Suddenly McClaren - this time last week vilified as no better than Turnip Taylor - is the best thing since sliced bread. String two positive results together against mediocre opposition and suddenly we've "the best England squad for fifty years". Where have I heard that before ? And aren't most of our first-choice players injured anyway?

Now - Scotland beating France in Paris. And topping their group ahead of both France and Italy: That is something to make you sit up and take note.

[davejones]

Can you imagine France being knocked out of both Rugby and Football!

[bigtj]

Yeah what a shame that would be, I don`t think, but lets hope the home nations make it through in both.

[CraigC]

tommo said:

I don't think we're quite through the wood yet, though this week's performances have been 'adequate'.

Suddenly McClaren - this time last week vilified as no better than Turnip Taylor - is the best thing since sliced bread. String two positive results together against mediocre opposition and suddenly we've "the best England squad for fifty years". Where have I heard that before ? And aren't most of our first-choice players injured anyway?

Before England played Russia, Russia were being seen as quality opposition with the wily Guus Hiddink in charge, and that England's win against poor Israel (on 17 points in the group) would be shown for what it was when they would lose to Russia. After England repeated their performance, Russia of course are now just mediocre opposition. Funny how that always seems to happen with England. ;)

As for McClaren, I have no doubts that Lampard and Beckham would have played if fit, and that Rooney and Owen would have been the partnership had Rooney been fit. However, give him credit for seeing qualities in both Barry and Heskey that few others recognised - it remains to be seen whether, with all players fit, he continues to pick the team ahead of the individuals.

Perspective is everything, England have shown themselves over the last week to be what they are - one of the top 8 sides in the world. Not world-beaters, but then neither were Greece 3 years ago or Italy last year. If the team is playing well, anything is possible, and those two quality performances gave back a little hope.