IT was Jimmy Greaves who coined the phrase: “It’s a funny old game”. Of course, for England supporters, there has been anything but fun and enjoyment at the 2014 World Cup.

The aftermath of what has been a very disappointing set of performances in both games, naturally points the finger at the manager and the choice of players and, understandably, we need some kind of analysis.

There was a lot of talk before the tournament about playing down expectations, but that is silly because England as a football nation with its history and traditions would be expected to perform, given the supposed quality of the players, who all turn out and play in what is considered the best league in the world.

Some say that there are too many overseas players involved in the Premier League, thus limiting opportunities for players born in England, but let’s face it, the players chosen by Roy Hodgson all play week in week out in the Premier League.

The simple fact is that they didn’t turn out a performance.

The glints of optimism were the younger players coming through.

Experienced players didn’t shine and inspire. Much of the World Cup is about skill and availability, but attitude comes into the equation.

There wasn’t a match winner, or motivator.

I also reckon the media has to take some responsibility.

What we need is a ‘can do’ approach.

The media needs to get real about players and their ability.

Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe.

AS an 84 year old I say don’t blame the manager for the early exit, put the blame on the FA, and clubs for having so many foreign players.

This leaves whoever is managing the English squad a very limited choice of players to field.

It’s not as it was in years gone by when clubs mostly fielded local or English players, and scouts visited towns and villages to view the talent.

These days it seems the scouts spend their time travelling all over the world looking for foreign talent, and paying high fees.

I would rather watch a good village team these days, where it is real sport.

Just think, if we were to go back a bit to the earlier days, how many more English youngsters would be taken off the unemployed list?

William Bohannon, Bowburn.