Since 1966 England have only defeated five nations in the knock out stages of a major tournament which – however you look at it – is an appalling statistic.
Now, with the last 16 upon us and Iceland lying in wait, the Cutter believes we have a solution. Well, we have two, the first being that we get really, really good at taking penalties.
The second though is a touch unorthodox – we employ a steady, schoolmasterly coach such as Roy Hodgson to guide us through the group stages then move him gently aside for Peter Beardsley to take the reins.
Why? Because speaking exclusively to 888sport the former Liverpool, Newcastle and England legend has laid out his team selection for this Monday’s crucial clash. And it’s one that would excite any Three Lions fan young or old.
“I would be happy for Vardy, Sturrdige and Kane to play together and Rooney to be in midfield. I would be happy for all four to start. Lallana has to be in there too because Iceland will be more worried about us than us them. They have been amazing but we should definitely have enough to beat them.”
“Eric Dier has been really good but it wouldn’t bother me if we didn’t have a holder and I’d love to see Danny Rose and Kyle Walker continue to bomb on. Our back four will be capable of containing anything Iceland can throw at us and I’m old school and remember Kevin Keegan at Newcastle going for it.”
You score two and we’ll score three. Beardo for England coach we say!
Read the full 888sport interview with Peter Beardsley, including his thoughts Adam Lallana’s impact and why Roy Hodgson keeps changing his mind.
