Life’s A Pitch: “Hodgson is in a beautiful place”

Well, who’d have thought it? Just seven weeks ago it seemed the whole nation was decrying the FA’s decision to appoint Roy Hodgson as England manager, instead of the more popular Harry Redknapp.

Then came Hodgson’s squad announcement and the fuss over Rio Ferdinand’s omission for “footballing reasons”, which only intensified after Gary Cahill withdrew with injury and was replaced by the inexperienced Martin Kelly, of Liverpool.

It seemed the average fan didn’t expect England to even find the way to their hotel, let alone out of a group containing France, Sweden, and hosts Ukraine.

But, some solid if unspectacular pre-tournament friendlies were followed by England topping Group D in Ukraine. A resolute draw against the French, a dramatic comeback victory against the Swedes, and a narrow win over hosts Ukraine.

And finishing above the French came with the added bonus of Hodgson’s men landing a quarter-final against Italy, rather than tournament favourites Spain. Let’s just say that expectations are rather different now.

And while England were pilloried by the French for being unadventurous, for playing on the counter attack, it’s a tactic that’s working for them.

But will it work against the Italians? A nation that, let’s face, invented cagey football. What the Italians don’t know about keeping it tight and nicking one on the break isn’t worth knowing.

But we might just have a little something up our sleeve. One of the many countries our well-travelled head coach has managed in is Italy. And the Life’s A Pitch pundits reckon his understanding of the Italian mentality could give England an advantage in what promises to be tightly-fought contest.

But before people start looking ahead to a possible semi-final against the Germans, our pundits also believe that England need to cut out the defensive lapses or Italy’s potent attack will have Hodgson’s men on the first flight back to England.

And even if England do lose, having already exceeded expectations they’ll be able to head home with their heads held high. And Hodgson’s crash course as England manager will have taken him some way towards shaping this squad into the sort of team he hopes can achieve some long-term success.

In more Euro 2012 related content we look at the flops of the tournament so far, plus we have a Spain shirt signed by midfield maestro Andres Iniesta to give away in our new competition.

And back to more domestic football, we assess the main contenders for the Tottenham manager’s job, look at the latest transfer news, and ask who is the Premier League’s best goalkeeper.

Expert pundit videos

“Hodgson is in a beautiful place now”

Expectations are on the up ahead of England’s Euro 2012 quarter-final with Italy. The Life’s A Pitch team assesses their prospects.
The Italian job >

Who have been the flops of Euro 2012 so far?

Which sides should be hanging their heads in shame after a disappointing showing at Euro 2012? The Life’s A Pitch team discusses.
Losers >

Doubts raised over Villas-Boas’ credentials for Spurs job

André Villas-Boas might be the favourite for the Spurs job, but neither the fans, the players or the Life’s A Pitch panel believe he’s the strongest candidate.
The right man? >

Who is the Premier League’s best goalkeeper?

The Life’s A Pitch panel discusses whether there are any goalkeepers in the Premier League who can challenge Joe Hart as No1.
Number one >

Lively opinion pieces

Why signing Giroud could signal Van Persie’s departure

Arsenal fans may be excited about signing striker Olivier Giroud, but Laure James reckons the Frenchman might have been bought as Van Persie’s replacement.
One in, one out? >

Time Arsenal ditched the drifters for winners

Adrian Clarke doubts the Gunners will challenge the best until they replace loners such as Arshavin and Bendtner with team-players, full of heart and desire.
Get rid >

Harry Redknapp for Ireland manager?

Mike Calvin explains why taking over as Ireland manager would be perfect for former Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp.
The Emerald Isle >

It’s up to Carroll where he goes from here

Having shown real signs of improvement recently, Mike Calvin wonders if Andy Carroll will choose the Didier Drogba or Paul Gascoigne route for his career.
Crossroads >

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