England vs Russia

By Adedayo Ayodele

Heard in an interview that Roy Hodgson believes English athleticism will overpower the Russians. Then the next camera shot is Hodgson standing there with Wayne Rooney, one of the least athletic players at the tournament.

Be interesting to see England’s starting 11 though. Watching Rooney dictate play in the midfield is not something I’m really looking forward to. How many games did he play there for Manchester United last season? About 6 which was towards the end of the season. Sterling is also bang out of form.

If anything I’d say, this Russian team have better athletic qualities. England have got a few young players who are yet to hit their peak like Dele Ali, and Adam Lallana who at least during this season at Liverpool was well out of shape. I’d put Henderson in the same boat, haven’t seen him play in a while but he’s been injured so long I doubt he’s in peak condition right now.

The problem with Hodgson, and why people are quick to have a go at him, is because his techniques are out-dated, and he doesn’t seem to understand the modern game.

England are unlikely to overpower the Russians, they should be relying on superior talent to win because if it comes down to who has the best athletes, the Russians will wreck them.

Hopefully like the French yesterday, they can get off to a good start and securing 3 points to take off pressure. A draw wouldn’t be the end of the world, but their group isn’t an easy one and every team playing them will no doubt try and frustrate them.

They have got to be ruthless and proactive in their approach.