England are through to the World Cup quarterfinals, and they got there in very dramatic fashion. England defeated Colombia yesterday in a penalty shoot-out (4-3), to advance their first quarter-finals since 2006, with a win that may have just exorcised the PK shoot-out demons for good.
England’s win on Tuesday was a major milestone towards trying to alleviate the burden of their recent World Cup disappointments. It was a wonderful moment of pride for a fan base that has certainly been tortured in recent decades.
Let’s take a look at some of the news surrounding a trio of United players on the Three Lions squad.
–Ashley Young, who was in the starting XI yesterday, is a fitness concern for Saturday against Sweden. We’ll know more in 24 hours, but as of now he is a doubt; likewise for defender Kyle Walker and striker Jamie Vardy.
–Marcus Rashford converted his chance in the penalty shoot out, showing tremendous poise and cool-headed maturity in the pressure cooker situation. Rashford admitted his frustration for being left on the bench, not just for country, but for club as well. The Sun has more at this link.
There has been a clamoring for Rashford to get into the England side via some vocal United supporters on social media. The Manchester Evening News has more here.
They are right to suggest that England manager make some changes in attack, as Three Lions haven’t scored by any means other than a PK in two games. They also haven’t registered a clean sheet at this World Cup yet. That’s not exactly a winning combination there. You might want to enjoy this moment of England glory while you can, because who knows how much longer it will last.
-Finally, Michael Carrick has labeled his former teammate Jesse Lingard as unique.
The recently retired former midfielder/current assistant coach said to the club’s official website: “I think his movement – he moves off the ball very well. It’s something that sounds quite simple, but it’s difficult to defend against.
“He senses where the space is and how to use it. I wouldn’t necessarily say he’s a dribbler with skills and tricks but he’s dynamic.”
“How he plays, he is unique in some ways. You don’t see so much of that in the game as everyone wants to get on the ball and do something on the ball. Off the ball, he’s very effective.”
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, which is partnered with News Now. Banks, a former writer for NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, is currently a regular contributor to SB Nation, WGN CLTV and Chicago Now.
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