Former England striker Michael Owen has expressed his thoughts on the team's performance in the World Cup, stating that they need to improve in order to succeed against better teams.
Owen commended the team's attitude and their ability to defend their lead with only 10 players on the field, but emphasized that their bravery was misplaced. According to Owen, the team's actions were not truly courageous, but rather a result of instinct and a desire to win.
He wrote, "They stuck together. They found a way. That takes character and it will only strengthen the belief within the squad. Fans are right to be proud of what they saw." However, Owen also emphasized that this was not true bravery, but rather a fundamental aspect of the game.
Owen went on to explain that real bravery in football involves taking risks and showing courage in the face of adversity. He stated, "Real bravery is wanting the ball when 80,000 people are willing you to make a mistake. It's showing for possession when everyone else is hiding." He emphasized that this is what England needs more of if they are going to win the World Cup.
Owen also warned the current squad that playing like they did against Mexico will not be enough to defeat stronger teams such as France, Spain, or Argentina. He stated, "If against France, Spain or Argentina, England play like they did versus Mexico, we'll get our backsides kicked."
Des Walker, a former England defender, took a more sympathetic view of the challenge England faced in Mexico, saying that it was one of the country's great World Cup wins. Walker noted that the team's ability to overcome adversity and thrive in tough situations is a testament to their character.
Jude Bellingham, a current England player, echoed Walker's sentiments, saying that the team's ability to perform under pressure is a strength, not a weakness. He stated, "I think people doubted them and, having been in that situation where people doubt you, it's nice to get yourself over the line."
Bellingham also noted that the team's focus on getting through to the next round, rather than just performing well on the field, is a key aspect of their success. He stated, "Everything isn't always about performance. It's a cup competition and, at the end of the day, it's about getting your name in the hat for the next round. That's what it's about."
