Following last night's World Cup warm-up friendly against Peru at Wembley, England's fans' optimism wasn't showing greatly especially on social media sites.
A 3-0 scoreline wasn't enough to convince too many that winning the World Cup is a realistic scenario at this moment in time. In truth, a few performances were below what was expected yet they say the best teams still win matches even when they're not at their best.
Positives from the Peru victory won't create an endless list, however, there's still certainly some to draw up and bearing in mind the likes of Jagielka and Wilshere still need playing time before being classed as fully-fit, things will only improve before England's opening fixture against Italy on June 14th in Brazil.
At times, the link-up play between Welbeck, Lallana & Sturridge was nice to watch, various flicks, passes & turns showed a glimpse of the flair England's attacking players hold, an attribute in the locker which will have to be pushed by Hodgson in attempt to unlock defenses at the South American tournament.
Daniel Sturridge's goal just after the half-hour mark, an example of the Liverpool's strikers ability, curling a delicious, unstoppable shot into the top corner of the goal which any could not help but admire and appreciate. England's goal hopes do not solely lay on Sturridge's shoulders but he's certain to spearhead the attack. He knows more than any that he will need to replicate his performances over the season just past to give England a major chance at the World Cup, and make himself an international star in the process.
England's midfield is the most mouth-watering area of the squad. Certainly the most balanced and exciting midfield for many years, Gerrard, Jordan Henderson and Frank Lampard all can sit in the centre of the pitch giving those further on in Lallana, Wilshere & co the freedom to attack and support to Sturridge by exploiting routes to get on goal.
Wayne Rooney may have to take a back seat for this tournament. The former Everton youngster was considered potentially England's best player for years to come following his inclusion in Euro 2004 yet in truth, he has never shone as bright as many of us expected. Theres no doubting his performances in a Manchester United shirt, and although he has scored important goals in the qualifying stages, its still to be seen whether he can make himself a pivotal figure playing behind Daniel Sturridge. Rooney failed to make an impact on the Peru game, leaving questions as to whether Ross Barkley or another player should take his place.
A clean sheet is always a positive, although there were a few defensive lapse in concentration against Peru that threatened this. Regardless, Englands back four (five including Joe Hart) is fairly solid, Kyle Walker misses through injury and would have gone as first choice right back but Glen Johnson is qualified enough to be his replacement. As previously mentioned, Phil Jagielka needs match practice which will be obtained in the upcoming friendlies against Ecuador and Honduras. I believe the bold decision to choose Baines as first choice left back and leave Ashley Cole at home has to be applauded as, in my personal opinion Leighton Baines provides an additional substantial attacking threat at the correct times leaving no risk to his fellow defenders.
Overall, England has one of the best squads for since many tournaments ago, strong back-up players like Raheem Sterling who could potentially be starters if required. There's certainly enough quality to match that of Italy and Uruguay, where wins will be required to overcome a fairly tough group stage. The Brazilian heat will take a little getting used to, other European nations will be in the same boat though. As the days draw closer to the opening game against Italy, England fans can only start to breed enthusiasm and optimism.
The main question we all wonder is, "Can England really win the World Cup this year?"
I say, "Why not?!"
