A team to make you proud

SINCE 1966, there have been few occasions when we could be excited by the performance of an england football team.

How many occasions have we had to sit with our eyes closed during the inevitable failed penalty shoot-outs?

six months ago, I was happy to tell friends I would put money on no england football team getting to a world Cup final in my lifetime due to a lack of talent, application, tactical nous, national pride and, when the chips are down, guts.

we’ve been let down by managers who were set in their ways, who had no national allegiance, no new ideas and, in some cases, debatable personal values.

But in this tournament, the managerial ethos of Gareth southgate has shaped the players’ individual and team performances.

I am impressed with the commitment, patriotism, collective skill and growing competitive maturity of this england team. the country salutes you.

RHOD TIBBLES, Norwich.