As I've said before, I think he should get the sack. Saying this, I also have to admit that I do have a personal liking for the guy... something about being SAF's assistant during the treble year and other great seasons. But qualifying for a major tournament is a minimum requirement for an England boss - anything less is grounds for dismissal no matter what the excuses might be.
Yes, it's true that the players didn't play well generally, but it is the managers job to make sure they do play well even in the face of injuries. When things were going fine (five 3-0 wins on the trot) then everything was fine, but when the stiff tests appeared, England crumbled and that is not the kind of spirit that wins anything. Anyone else remember last seasons away game at Everton? (still my favourite game of that season, btw) That was real fighting spirit!
Sorry Steve.... but you gotta go. Even if for no other reason than both the fans and players will have doubts and lack confidence as long as you're at the post. Right after the game, I had a flash of who would make a good successor and although some people here might want to lynch me for saying it, Jose Mourinho is currently leading the polls as the favoured next manager of England.
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