England coach Fabio Capello has apologised twice for his team's dismal World Cup campaign, while captain Steven Gerrard admitted he would probably boo the national side if he were a spectator at Wednesday's friendly against Hungary. Both men expect a hostile reaction from fans following England's humiliating 4-1 defeat to Germany in Bloemfontein on 27 June.
Wembley is unlikely to be full for the Hungary match, despite the Football Association cutting ticket prices, due to the fractured relationship between fans and players. Gerrard said during Tuesday's media session that playing for England is currently tricky but hopes to put things right swiftly. 'We have to show how sorry we are by doing it on the pitch,' said the Liverpool midfielder, one of ten World Cup squad members set to feature.
The reception for Capello himself will be interesting. The Italian has listed several reasons for England's underperformance, but his own role has faced intense criticism. Personally, I believe it is impossible to establish whether the failure lies more with Capello or his players. Maybe England just aren't good enough, given their failure to qualify for Euro 2008 and quarter-final exits in the three previous major tournaments.
Wednesday's match is unlikely to provide firm answers, but Gerrard hopes it marks a revival. 'Hopefully we can regroup, move forward together and turn things around,' he stated. England begin their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign against Bulgaria in 23 days, and Capello needs to breathe life into a tired outfit. The selection of rising stars Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs, plus the recall of Adam Johnson and Theo Walcott, may help. Wilshere, an 18-year-old midfielder regarded as an exceptional talent, has yet to establish himself in Arsenal's first team.
It would be unwise to expect too much from Wilshere, but Capello is banking on fresh faces to lift the gloom. I suspect it will take more than a few cameos to placate supporters and bring back belief, but the match may provide closure after a dismal few weeks. The question remains: can England repair their damaged relationship with fans and learn the lessons from South Africa?
