Is Milner Good Enough For England?

26 June 2012 14:30
Steven Gerrard cannot explain why England's midfield couldn't keep the ball during the Euro 2012 quarter-final with Italy.

I know many Geordie fans could not believe how former Toon winger James Milner was an ever-present in the England side.

He is probably the most over-rated player in the squad.

Average at Newcastle during his time there, and we couldn't believe we got so much money from him.

He's not a ball-winner; got little pace; not the best passer of a ball; so what does he do well? 

I'm sure some could argue with me, asking: "Well who is better in that position?"

But ask yourself ... who is WORSE?

Steven Gerrard: "I don't know why we couldn't keep hold of the ball.

"It's a difficult question to answer and I am sure it's one of the biggest points of this tournament that the management and coaching staff will have to look into.

"Keeping the ball - especially at this level - is fundamental. It's key if you want to beat the big teams in these tournaments.

"You work so hard without it your opponent ends up running you into the ground and creating chances.

"Football's a mad game at times. If we had won the penalty shoot-out we would have been through to the last four.

"I don't look at stats too much unless it's clear time and time again that something's sticking out so obviously.

"In this tournament we have come up short as far as possession is concerned.

"The education of the young kids is vital.

"But I hope it doesn't take 10 years. I hope we're good enough to improve and bridge the gap with these big teams before that."

Source: FOOTYMAD