The Boys are Back …

The England team gathered at St Georges Park before flying out to Qatar.

As the players arrive the growing sense of excitement is tangible.

Declan Rice declares “World Cup baby” as he gets out of his car

and everyone hands over their passports.

You may have to endure an advert if you watch the Arrivals film on

Youtube but that is a whole lot better than watching the guys havingto endure the sponsored media

sessions that have been arranged.

It seems the fools at the FA thought it was a good idea to allow a food supermarket.

and beer company to associate themselves with the team. The FA does not need the money,

the players do not need the money.  Why do it ?  

Patience seemed to be wearing a bit thin as Rahm Sterling started quizzing the producer

about how they would define the term “technically gifted” and Kyle Walker began an

enquiry into how the word “iconic” is thrown around.  Indeed, comparing Michael Owens     

World Cup goal against Brasil to Gascoignes Wembley strike against Scotland does depend   

on how things are defined.

Regardless everyone agreed “H” is a top trainer and every interaction you can see is laced

with an easy going respect and affection.  Training started in 32 degrees.

The average age of the England squad is 26 and for many of these players this is

their second major tournament.  Declan Rice is 23, Harry Kane is 29 and Saka is 21.

Phil Foden is 22 and Pickford another veteran at 28.

England players have accents from all over the country – from Liverpool to Birmingham to London.  

They are on the way ..

COME ON ENGLAND