I don't like the way that many England fans (not the more educated like what we is
) are assuming we will easily beat Croatia tonight. The press are especially guilty of this mass over hyping, as they often are.
Thats fucking dangerous territory to think that way pre game.
Lets take it one game at a time.
Thing is most of these were the same people who said they didn't care about the national side a while back. We could have a debate on here as to why 4 years ago the viewing figures for Bake Off, were twice that of an England game on the box.
Here's an old post from that debate by Baggins.... of course not 100% accurate, but a pretty good shot at viewing the then future.
"I didn't think it was that bad, although I agree about Rooney. I thought it looked like a bunch of promising young players, not world beaters, that were crying out for a couple of top class players to show them the way - which is what we are lacking. Our young players are going to have to learn without that guidance, because we have nobody like that.
I also thought we had a much better shape when we went to the diamond, with Sterling at the front. He is wasted out wide - he makes things happen through the middle. With him in behind Sturridge and Welbeck we look dangerous. Henderson at the back of the diamond will grow in to the role - there is a good player there. If we can create a couple of good players to play on either side of that diamond from Wilshere, O-C, Delph, Colback, or AN Other, then that will help. Defensively - we are terrible. Hopefully Chambers and Stones will help, but if our future defence is built on Phil Jones, Gary Cahill and Chris Smalling, then we are in trouble.
And yes - I am obviously one of those who do still care about the national team. As you all would, if we were good and won a world cup."