In the run up to England’s win against Scotland last night, the major talking point was not the history of the tie, but Fifa’s refusal to allow either team to wear a poppy on their shirt or armband. Fifa reminded both nations that its regulations do not permit teams to wear “political, religious or commercial” messages on the […]
England
Dilemmas start now for Roy Hodgson
With the exception of 18-year-old Marcus Rashford, who will almost certainly be jettisoned when the final squad is announced, Roy Hodgson’s England squad contained few surprises. Two main questions need to be resolved in the three friendly matches before the European Championships begin. Firstly, can England’s defenders learn the art of defending? After years of […]
England must play on
The authorities have made the correct decision to allow England’s match against France at Wembley to go ahead. The deployment of armed police at the stadium reflects the heightened tension in Europe following the attacks in Paris, but in the absence of information suggesting there is a specific threat to the friendly match, the decision […]
Lancaster should stay but change is needed
The national media are looking for a scapegoat, but are holding their fire until after England’s participation at the World Cup is finally over. If England’s last match of the tournament was against a Tier 1 or a strong Tier 2 nation, the players would have the opportunity to claim a shred of redemption. A […]
FA should resist Januzaj temptation
The international tug of war continues between nations eager for Adnan Januzaj to pledge his allegiance in their favour. The 18-year-old is currently available to play for Albania, Belgium, Turkey and Serbia. He could also play for England from 2018 under current Fifa rules that require players to have five years of permanent residency in […]
England should be satisfied despite ending Autumn Internationals in defeat
This afternoon England’s autumn international rugby season ended in an ultimately disappointing 30-22 defeat to New Zealand. Nevertheless, the nature of the defeat ensures that the upward trajectory of the nation’s rugby team remains, just about, intact. Two wins from three games was the minimum required for expectant fans. Although the first half against […]