Former England international Ian Wright believes that the Three Lions need to push forward more often and test the opposing defenders if they are to go any further in Euro 2012.
Speaking after Roy Hodgson’s side secured a quarter-final spot against Italy with a narrow 1-0 win over co-hosts Ukraine, the former Arsenal player insisted that there is still work to be done if England want to challenge for the title.
“We have to start getting behind the defence more and putting in more crosses. We have shown in our opening three games that when we do that we are a real threat and can score goals,” Wright said in an interview with The Sun.
“It is good to be resilient but it is not enough on its own. We need to create chances as well.”
“It was not the greatest England performance but it doesn’t matter. We won and we’re through and it is one in the eye for all the Three Lions doubters and haters out there.”
“I have to say I thought Steven Gerrard was outstanding. The skipper led by example in one of his best games in recent years for England.”
Wright revealed he optimistic despite a disappointing performance from Wayne Rooney on his return from suspension, and affirmed his belief that the Three Lions can beat the Azzurri.
“He [Rooney] was a bit off the pace and understandably so, having not played for so long. That game and that goal will have done him the world of good and hopefully he will only get stronger from now on.”
“Of course we can [beat Italy]. They’ll be thinking they can beat us as well but I am confident about playing them. We are at the stage now where every game is tough. We can beat Italy — but we have to play better than we did last night.”
However, despite his belief that England can advance to the semi-final stage Wright remained sceptical on their chances of winning the competition as a whole.
“Going by the way we played in the first three games, it seems unlikely that we will win the tournament. If we were to beat Italy, we would then face Germany or Greece in the last four.
“We probably need to be able to keep the ball and create more. But what Hodgson has given us is a fighting chance.”
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