Michael Owen has issued a reality check to England after their 3-2 World Cup victory over Mexico, claiming the reaction has been totally over the top and the performance was not as impressive as many believe.
England's historic win in Mexico City
The Three Lions secured a dramatic win at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, dumping out the co-hosts in their own backyard. England had to survive a late onslaught with ten men following Jarell Quansah's red card, but stood firm to keep their World Cup dream alive.
The victory has been hailed as one of England's greatest successes in major tournament history. However, Owen feels the "bravery" narrative is excessive and believes the team should have attempted to take control of the contest instead of defending deep.
Owen's critical assessment
Writing in the Daily Mail, Owen said: "I was actually relieved to hear Thomas Tuchel say afterwards that there was plenty to improve on, because that's exactly how I saw it. I thought I was going mad listening to the reaction after the game."
Owen added: "I'd be concerned if people suddenly see this as the blueprint. What I find encouraging is that I don't think Tuchel does. Everything I've heard from him suggests he wants a team that presses together, controls possession and has the courage to keep playing football under pressure. We haven't seen enough of that yet. There have been too many moments when England have fallen into old habits. We score, we drop deeper. We come under pressure, we surrender possession."
Warning about elite opponents
England will face Norway in the quarter-finals, where they are favourites to advance. But Owen insists the current game plan would not work against top-tier sides. "If against France, Spain or Argentina, England play like they did versus Mexico, we'll get our backsides kicked," said the former striker. "You cannot spend long spells without the ball or keep on being sloppy with it against teams of that quality."
Owen praised Tuchel for his post-match comments, where the manager stopped short of hailing the performance and instead called for improvements. The former England international believes this measured approach is the right one as the tournament progresses.
