Many In Contention For The US Masters

Arguably the highlight of the golfing calendar, The US Masters gets under way this week and after tipping Rory McIlroy to win his first one last year, I definitely wouldn’t back against this happening again, as he bids to become the first back-to-back champion since Tiger Woods, while Nick Faldo and Jack Nicklaus also share this feat.

However, there are notable contenders including world number one, Scottie Scheffler who is aiming for a third title on home soil.

Although I wouldn’t back against either of those two, both have had mixed fortunes this year so far; Scheffler having not won since January (though with a third and a fourth place), with the Northern Irishman only being able to manage a second-place finish (in February).

At 5/1, the American is the favourite, though I do see value at 10/1 in McIlroy, who demonstrated last year that he can turn it on and hold onto a lead.

I’m also really intrigued by the LIV competitors, with John Rahm (three runner-up 2026 finishes) and Bryson DeChambeau (back-to-back 2026 titles) both with 9/1 odds.

 A Value Outsider Could Deliver

One thing I’ve had a good run with over the years is backing those golfers who are in a good run of form, but with great value odds and there are a few that jump out for me this time around.

Matt Fitzpatrick I think is certainly one to watch and at 16/1 this is a great price considering he is the hottest putter on tour right now, after a massive win at the Valspa Championship last month, which was then followed up by a second-placed finish at The Players. Augusta has some of the most unforgiven greens in the world of golf, so for me, you can’t go far wrong with an each-way bet with these odds.

I think that Cameron Young at the same price (and, the world number three) is too good to ignore, especially following his win at The Players, while ‘Mr Consistent’, Justin Rose, having agonisingly lost in the play-off last year and with two top five finishes in his last five attempts is essentially a course specialist and, at 28/1 is superb value.

And, if you want a complete long shot, I’d be looking at J.J Spaun, who arrives in Georgia after his win over the weekend at the Valero Texas Open; his odds of 65/1 I think, are well worth an each-way flutter.

Another Play-Off Could Well be Likely

Augusta is certainly used to witnessing tense play-offs and, if the conditions are perfect, there are some strong contenders who could make Sunday very interesting indeed I think.

The quality of golf on show at the minute in addition, with many who have a point to prove, the climax of this tournament could make for a very exciting first major of the year.

Usually, it is the golfer who best plays the percentages at Augusta who ends up the winner, while also having a handle of the greens. I’m not convinced that McIlroy can make it two in a row; it’s very open this time around so I’d definitely be looking at one of the outsiders. Sure, why not, I’ll go for Rose.

If England Can Beat France In Paris The It’s Their 6 Nations

Well, that came around fast didn’t it? Feels like only yesterday when I was previewing last year’s 6 Nations tournament. At 7/2, I said they could be of great value and, oh, they very nearly were, finishing second by just one point, losing out to France.

I have a feeling it comes down to a similar eventuality this time around with the last game being under the lights in Paris, in what could be the tournament decider between England and France.

Looking at the odds this year (though, with more or less, a week to go), these are very similar, with England priced again, as second-favourites at 9/4 odds, indeed, just slightly narrower than last time.

But, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Before that, we have what will be some great clashes and it could be another team entirely who are worthy champions.

France Will Make It Difficult But England Can Pounce

There is no doubting the quality of this French side. In Antoine Dupont, they have arguably the best player in the world and he will be vital to their title defence. Meanwhile, winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey is the most clinical finisher in rugby right now and if any team is going to beat France, they will need all eyes on him. Meanwhile, surprisingly coach Fabien Galthie has dropped legends including Gael Fickou and Gregory Alldritt in a bid to fast-track the next generation.

I’ve got to admit, I’m intrigued by England. Currently on an 11-match winning-streak, after an impressive campaign during the Autumn Internationals, it appears that coach Steve Borthwick’s plan has fully clicked and they won’t be easy to play against. Playing the most expansive rugby for a decade, England looks exciting and with captain Maro Itoje leading the charge, there is every chance of continuing the run. I’d be tempted to bet on the Grand Slam to be honest.

With Northampton Saints pair Alex Mitchell and George Furbank pulling the strings in the engine room, England are well equipped for high-intensity games, which further fuels suggestions of a tournament decider against France on the last day. Fellow Saints’ back-rower, Henry Pollock is also one to watch.

Best Of The Rest

In terms of how the bookies are looking at it, Ireland have the next best chance and they can cause an upset if they get their act together.

Coach Andy Farrell masterminded a brilliant British & Irish Lions series win “down under” in the summer and he needs a similar kind of strategy if Ireland are to be in with any chance of winning. Odds of around 6/1 though suggest it is unlikely, with key veterans Andrew Porter, Robbie Henshaw, and Mack Hansen all missing. If they can shock France in Paris on the opening night, they suddenly become serious contenders. Big ask though.

You just never know with Scotland and, even as an England fan, I do enjoy watching them. They play fearless rugby and over the last two years they’ve been unlucky to finish fourth both times. It seems coach Gregor Townsend has gone for a Glasgow-heavy side (13 players) to cement chemistry with Sione Tuipulotu selected as captain. Lock Jonny Gray will be one to keep an eye on.

Rising force Italy are no longer the ‘whipping boys’ of this tournament. They’ve picked up some brilliant wins over the last two years in the 6 Nations, most notably a win in Paris two years ago. A task right now that looks impossible. Despite this though they still do have an upset in them. In Edoardo Todaro, they have a winger who is ripping it up in England for the Saints right now and he will be key.

It’s hard for Wales right now. They have been in a rebuilding phase for the last two years (an average age of 26.5) and certainly aren’t the team they once were. I think they have a win in them though, with three home games (one against France) giving them a good chance to pick up points.

Lando’s Leap: From Potential To Champion

This Formula 1 title win wasn’t about the raw speed that we all knew Lando Norris had. No. It had more to do with the mental fortitude he developed over the course of a season that can be gruelling as much as it is euphoric.

I don’t actually believe that no other driver faced more external or internal pressure than Norris did this year and this title win was less about a culmination of potential, but more a decisive statement about his maturity.

Securing the title by just two points over Max Verstappen said it all for Norris. It demonstrated his nerve in a war of attrition and confirmed his ability to handle the pressure cooker. At 22.00 local time on Sunday night in Abu Dhabi, Norris had finally arrived.

Consistency Over Dominance Became Norris’ Recurring Theme

To label Norris a ‘safe’ champion would be lazy. He’s a very good driver pitted against an elite field. Verstappen is no slouch while his teammate Oscar Piastri challenged him on numerous occasions.

For Norris, it was about developing the habit of accumulating points at the start of this season, in addition to a notable victory in Melbourne, Australia I think, established an, ah, podium, on which to build. He was also banking points even when his McLaren MCL39 wasn’t the fastest car, underlining his ability as a highly skilled and tactical driver.

It was the Dutch Grand Prix that for me, illustrated his character and by Sunday night, he cut a figure that could definitively be sculpted. The remarkable resilience shown to come back from his DNF in Zandvoort that put him 30 points behind teammate

Many of his victories came at strategic points in the season, though some were particularly notable. Flagship wins at Silverstone and Monte Carlo showcased his technical ability, while I felt his late race overtake in Qatar to get P4 and valuable points highlighted his tactical intelligence and race management.

His is a maturity from a driver we probably haven’t seen for a while and in a car that was by no means the best consistently. Understanding the races he could challenge in and those in which he had to ‘play the game’ I think has been a big part in securing the Championship.

A Lot More To See From Norris

I really don’t think that this will be his last title. With Verstappen, pretty much on his way out, it sets up an exciting few years, with his teammate Piastri pushing him close this time around and compatriot, fellow Brit, George Russell coming through.

For British F1 fans, this couldn’t be any better and while many people will have their preference – I think both him and Russell have equal amounts of talent and ability and no doubt, we’ll see a bigger challenge from the latter next year. Verstappen, meanwhile, will no doubt have something to say next season and could come roaring back.

Norris’ victory was nevertheless a stark reminder that ‘flash’ doesn’t always prevail in a sport where you need all four tyres on terra firma.

Arsenal In The Driving Seat And I Don’t See This Changing

Imagine my surprise when my prediction that Arsenal would have a strong start came to fruition. While everyone else was saying Liverpool this and Liverpool that, I was quietly thinking about how strong Arsenal looked.

They had, for sure, the best transfer window of any club in the summer (yes, including Liverpool), though their number one signing was made long before and Mikel Arteta seemed delighted.

When they brought in Andrea Berta a few months before the end of last season as sporting director, I knew they meant business. The last few transfer windows have been okay, definitely improving the team, though there were some glaring priorities.

Berta got straight to work in his typical proactive fashion, leveraging the superb network he had built up while in the same role for Atletico Madrid and you cannot argue with his effectiveness.

Dream targets almost overnight became realistic ambitions as priority positions; a top quality centre forward, a specialist defensive midfielder and a back-up to Bukayo Saka were quickly identified and approached.

Strategic Transfer Window

What I also thought that Berta did very well was adding players almost ‘in the background’, while he was working on other targets. Quite a few Arsenal fans probably thought that the signing of Christian Norgaard from Brentford was going to be their only defensive midfielder, but I had a sneaky feeling.

I couldn’t believe it when news emerged of a petition to not bring in Noni Maduke from Chelsea as Saka’s back-up, but then got onside when they saw the impact he made – fans really are fickle.

When they brought in Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia to add defensive depth and also somewhat of a youth project to develop, again I thought it was a canny move and also another deal that probably wasn’t that hard to complete. Kepa Arrizabalaga another one; they needed a reserve goalkeeper and the Spaniard arrived from Chelsea. Round pegs in round holes for minimum fuss.

All the while in the background, Berta and his team were working on their main targets. When Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres arrived from Real Sociedad and Sporting Lisbon, respectively, Arsenal fans, it seemed, quickly changed their tune. And he didn’t stop there. Berta also showed his ruthless mastery.

WELCOME VIKTOR!

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— Arsenal FC (@arsenalfc.bsky.social) 26 July 2025 at 19:12

An early summer pursuit for Ebere Eze proved fruitless, though upon hearing that the player was close to joining the Gunners’ major rivals Tottenham, Berta swooped. Essentially, he was a bonus and fans were delighted. Even the loan signing (with an option to buy) of centre-back/left-back Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen on deadline day proved to be a masterstroke, making it easily the best transfer window of any club.

Deservedly On Top

arsenal manager and players

So, I reiterate, I am not at all surprised to see Arsenal in the driving seat in the Premier League and going strong in the Champions League. They probably have the best squad in Europe and a major trophy this season is, I think, inevitable.

There are concerns about Gyokeres having a slow start, though I think he will come good, indeed, he has gradually begun to show signs that he can be the goalscorer that they need.

I’m intrigued to see what Gabriel Jesus might offer now he’s back, though, I really think they might have sold him in the summer had he been fit. This is something that could well happen next year and they’ll replace him with another. Certainly I think it would be good for Gyokeres to have a decent back-up. They’ve been linked with FC Porto’s Samu Agehowa; wow, he would be an incredible replacement.

I read the other day that Martin Keown said that this Arsenal side defend like the class of 1997/98 and attack like the “Invincibles” of 2003/04 and I’m almost inclined to agree with him. They don’t quite have that swashbuckling style of the side that contained Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, Robert Pires et al, though they’re getting there gradually. What Arteta has done very well though since he came in a few years ago is transform them defensively and the Gunners definitely are like the 1997/98 side.

For me, there is no doubt that this Arsenal side will win the Premier League this season, while I could also see them winning the Champions League. What’s that saying about London buses?

Ryder Cup Ready To Get Into Full Swing

It’s that time again, where the best of Europe takes on the best of the USA as the 2025 Ryder Cup golf tournament swiftly approaches. I, for one, am looking forward to this.

Bethpage Black Course, in New York will host the Ryder Cup for the first time and this is being eagerly anticipated by all involved, plus millions of viewers from around the world.

Each team is littered with a mix of established talent, plus some newcomers, while Team Europe will be looking to make it back-to-back triumphs.

For me, it is too close to call, though with Team USA having the World Number One in Scottie Scheffler, who has won two majors this year, he could well be the deciding factor.

Team Europe Could Push The Hosts All The Way

While Team USA are likely many people’s favourites, Europe’s captain, Luke Donald has assembled a team, I think, who could produce some shocks throughout.

Notably, Rory McIlroy, who finally completed golf’s Grand Slam after winning the US Masters earlier this year, could be the most influential player if he is relaxed and maintains his focus.

For me, Justin Rose is a major standout. Probably, one of the most consistent players in the sport for many years – often finishing inside the top 10 of most major tournaments, his calmness and ability to play the percentages very well could make him a very useful weapon. He also agonisingly lost to McIlroy in a play-off at Augusta, so is in great form.

I think many eyes will be on big-hitter John Rahm as well. Another consistent player, he could be a big threat for Europe and is as good as any player in the world on his day.

Shane Lowry is also another I like for consistency and handling the pressure, while Ludvig Aberg and Viktor Hovland could be two interesting ones to watch. It could also be the perfect stage for Englishman Tommy Fleetwood to really come into his own as well.

Team USA Littered With Big Names

I’ve already mentioned Scheffler and all eyes will undoubtedly be on him, to see how he performs, though Team USA have a number of others who could be credible threats to Europe’s challenge.

Xander Schauffele is another, who on his day, is a big-game player, while Bryson De Chambeau and Patrick Cantlay can push their opponents all the way.

US captain Keegan Bradley is well-aided by the ability and experience of his vice captains, which include Jim Furyk and Brandt Snedeker. In previous editions of this tournament, Team USA has been criticised by only having ‘names’ and Keegan has attempted to compile a team with more of an emphasis on spirit and cohesion.

A Contest For The Ages?

There are so many intriguing sub-plots about this Ryder Cup. Yes, Team Europe is going for back-to-back victories and I think this is definitely achievable. With Team USA also appearing to change tactics from previous tournaments, this also could make it even more interesting.

Europe’s last winning margin was by an impressive five points (16.5 – 11.5) and, ultimately, it could come down to individual contests. I do expect a few draws – my head still says a Europe win, though I think it could be a lot closer than last time.

A Look At The Open Championship 2025

Arguably one of the best golf tournaments of the year is upon us and it’s one that really intrigues me.

While there will be a lot of support for home hopeful Rory McIlroy on his local course – I can see him winning as well – it would make for a very decent double so far this year after he finally won the only major to yet elude him (The Masters) to complete a career Grand Slam. He can be pleased with his second-placed finish in Scotland, which proved to be a decent warm-up.

Ones To Watch

I’ve got to admit, I think there are a few decent bets for The Open. Having watched some of the Scottish Open last week, there were quite a few candidates that stood out for me, especially with that being Links as well.

One I do like is Sepp Straka to finish in the top 5 – you can get him at about 10s or 11s and I think there is great value in this. He looks in form and is playing some great golf and finished seventh at Scottish Open last week – I fancy him to go one better and it looks like he’s gaining momentum.

Another I was impressed by last week was Nicolai Hojgaard who finished tied for fourth and in Northern Ireland you can get him at around 10s for a top five finish. Some bookies are even offering as much as 16/1 which is great value. He played some great golf in Scotland and impressive shots. For me, he’s certainly worth a punt.

It was also another impressive showing from Justin Rose who finished in sixth place – he’s definitely worth looking at for a top five place with odds of around 16s which I think are very generous from a punter’s perspective.

A wildcard to look out for is up and coming English golfer Harry Hall who played some very impressive shots in Scotland and after his 17th place finish, a 3/1 price to finish in the top 20 at Royal Portrush could give you a decent return if you put £20 on, depending on whether you think this is worth it.

Will The Heavyweights Show Up?

I’ve got to admit, it was a bit of a disappointing showing from both Scottie Scheffler and Xander Shauffele last week, who both underwhelmed, finishing joint-eighth in the end.

I’m not massively convinced about their chances this week – I don’t think Links golf necessarily agrees with either of them. The conditions were also superb last week, so if the wind picks up in Northern Ireland, I think they might struggle. Don’t be fooled by their short odds – I really don’t know how Scheffler is the favourite.

John Rahm is a big hitter and on his day he’s also the complete golfer, so if he puts everything together, then he could pose the biggest threat to McIlroy I think. His 12/1 odds are decent value, as is 5/2 for him to finish in the top five.

I’m Confident About The British & Irish Lions’ Chances This Summer

We’re at that time of the year again where it’s exciting to be a rugby union fan, where we see the best in the UK come together to take on Australia in what is bound to be an action-packed three-match series.

I’m definitely excited, especially having seen the talent that was on show in this year’s 6 Nations tournament – perhaps reflected in the make-up of the side.

Heavily influenced by the Irish (only just), who have 15 players, followed by 13 from England, eight from Scotland and just two from Wales, I definitely think we have a great chance.

Who Stand Out For The Lions?

There is no doubt that we have a very dynamic pack, with individual strengths. The likes’ of Maro Itoje, Tom Curry and Josh van der Flier are definitely big players for the Lions and I think will be key coming up against the Wallabies – at least, certainly difference-makers.

The Lions also have great flair in the backs – Finn Russell, Marcus Smith and the maverick that is Tommy Freeman have the potential to really unlock Aussie defences and are certainly dangerous with the ball in hand.

Meanwhile, in Henry Pollock, there is a rising star that can take the stage by storm and really show the world what he is all about.

I think there has to be a shout out to Ben Earl as well whose workrate is often underrated – he quietly goes about his business, puts in the hits, covers the pitch and is sublime as a support player, usually breaking lines and hard to defend against.

What Could The Outcome Be?

Not surprisingly, the Lions are favourites for the series, especially after Australia’s slump to eighth in the world rankings, though they do have home advantage.

The Lions will likely need to cope with tricky weather conditions – it is winter down under, though they may be glad of the cooler temperatures and it could actually work to their advantage.

I’m thinking that it will be closer than a lot of people think – possibly a narrow 2-1 series victory. Coach, Andy Farrell will definitely make sure his boys don’t let complacency set in and he will be keen to keep his players aware, though relaxed at the same time.

It is always an entertaining fixture and I think that these will be three very different games, so fans have a lot to look forward to.

Ultimately, I expect Lions’ quality to shine through – especially with the blend of talent and experience in the squad which could essentially overwhelm the Wallabies.
There were times in the 6 Nations where we saw players punished in the rain with handling errors, so the Lions will be hoping for dry conditions – should this be the case, then it will only help their cause.

Derby Delight For Delacroix Or Ruling Court To Deliver Favourable Verdict?

It’s that time of the year again and we’re in Derby day fever as the Epsom Betfred Derby swiftly approaches.

This year looks to be an exciting lineup and plenty of intrigue surrounding the race. As we have seen in previous years, anything can happen and this time around, it seems to be a considerably open field.

Both the current, joint, 3/1 favourites – Delacroix and Ruling Court appear to have particularly early backing, though it could well be the latter that has the best chance, set to go off from stall seven, which, historically, has served as an advantageous draw.

While these two look to be the punter’s favourites at the minute, I think there could well be some each/way value as well.

What Stand Out About The Two Favourites?

For me, aside from the odds, the Aidan O’Brien/Ryan Moore combination have proven to be potent and if they get it right on the day, then Delacroix could be primed to challenge right to the last, despite having a wide draw.

It does appear to lend momentum to Ruling Court who, under Charlie Appelby is in good hands, however, I am slightly concerned and the only thing that would stop me from having a flutter on him is his stamina over 1.5 miles.

Much will obviously depend on the ground as well. At the minute, the forecast is indicating dry conditions and this could have an impact. Delacroix has historically favoured good to soft while Ruling Court has typically shown great ability on good to firm.

It will certainly be an interesting battle between the two, though there may just be one or two candidates that may surprise punters on the day.

Who Could Be One To Watch?

I would definitely not rule out Prince Of Arras. He is the third favourte and at 5/1 I think he has great on-the-nose value, considering his strengths. Trainer Ralph Beckett is very confident about his ability to handle varying conditions and he put in a very notable performance in the Dante Stakes, while he has shown he is very strong in the closing stages.

The only disadvantage for him, I feel is that he goes out from stall 16, however I do think he has the ability to spring a surprise and I’m sure this is why he has longer odds. Though, there is value there.

Lambourn – another in the O’Brien stable could be very good value, with odds of around 12/1 and he goes from stall 10 which has proven to be the most sucessful historically.

As ever, I think this promises to be an intriguing race and I am sure it will not disappoint!

I’d Definitely Back McIlroy To Win Another Major This Year

After what has to be the best US Masters for a number of years, watching Rory McIlroy complete the Grand Slam, I think nothing’s going to stop him now.

It’s like he’s overcome that mental barrier that has been stopping him all of these years and he’s in the form of his life. When he dropped shots towards the end to force a play-off with Justin Rose, he showed nerves of steel to come back – in previous years, he would have crumbled.

I was that convinced he’d win, I even had a little punt each way, which made it extra sweet, though based on his performance at Augusta, I’m very tempted to back him for The Open in July.

Obviously before this, there is the small matter of the PGA Championship and US Open and he could well do the clean sweep, which would be an extraordinary achievement and something that no professional golfer has ever achieved.

I really think he looks unstoppable and I’m sure that if he fails to win any of them, then it won’t be because he’s playing poorly – I’d be very surprised if he doesn’t finish inside the top five for each anyway.

What Has Changed For McIlroy?

I’ve never seen him more focused on a golf course and there were times when I was watching over the four days where I thought I was watching a robot. His putting game has come on leaps and bounds and he is playing the percentages very nicely.

He reminded me of times at Augusta of watching prime Tiger Woods, who in my era I think is the best I’ve ever watched and I definitely think McIlroy now has the potential to match him.

His composure was fantastic, he didn’t seem tense or agitated, but almost in a trance at times which, from what I’ve heard was a tactic that he decided to go with pre-tournament after reported sessions with his sports psychologist, Bob Rotella. He didn’t even talk to Bryson DeChambeau (his partner on the final round) – again another tactic, which seemed to work in his favour.

I think we’re going to now see some of the best golf of his career over the next couple of years – he’ll be riding this wave for a good few weeks and this momentum could take him into the PGA Championship, with him being around 5/1 (and obviously the favourite) to win.

Tuchel Progressive But England Have Work To Do

I have to admit, I was definitely intrigued about new England manager Thomas Tuchel’s first two games in charge. Obviously the most important take-away is that we got six points, scored goals and didn’t concede.

Afterall, both games were at home and, against minnows in the grand scheme of things. I guess there were no shocks in terms of how both teams were going to set up against us either, so it was important that Tuchel had a plan and selected the right players to execute it.

True to form, the media, I think, has been a bit overly harsh on him after these two performances – look at other successful managers – especially at club level. It took Jurgen Klopp at least 12 months to more or less successfully implement the style of play he wanted at Liverpool with the roots of the right team.

The difference with Tuchel, is that he has the players to pick and choose from (club managers need transfer windows), though club managers work with their players on a daily basis.

Also, compared to Gareth Southgate, it is clear that Tuchel is a lot more switched on from a tactical perspective. Yes, both teams we played set up with a low-block – that much pre-game was always going to be the case. But choosing the right players, in the right roles and applying the right tactics and methodology was key.

You could see what Tuchel wanted his players to do – at times we did it well, so the foundation is there – this is something I’m encouraged by, and maybe what the media missed – especially those outlets that aren’t as tactically aware. But, it was clear for me to see that in order to combat the low-block, there was an emphasis on quick passing, movement and interchanging – something that Spain does very well – but they have the personnel.

Positives To Take From These Games

I also think we have the personnel, or at least have the potential to. When you factor in the crop of players that Tuchel has to choose from to fit into his vision – especially talents in the youth teams, then I think we have a bright future under the German manager.

It could be too soon to see us win the World Cup under him playing his style, but if we continue to be progressive and get to a respectable stage, then I could definitely see us winning the European Championship with him in charge (off the back of being offered a longer contract).

One of the highlights for me was the inclusion of Reece James and Tuchel’s decision to start his former player (who he managed at Chelsea), proved to be a masterstroke against Latvia. His free-kick was sublime and he had a very good game overall I thought.

Morgan Rogers was also a shining light on his debut against Latvia and he looks the type of intelligent player that Tuchel likes and will fit into his system very well – his versatility in particular is something that I think England fans will definitely take to. He can play anywhere in the front ‘quadrant’ and I reckon him maybe as an inside forward, Cole Palmer in the hole, Jude Bellingham as an eight and two others (you’d probably say Harry Kane up top for now – given his form) could be very nice to see.

Declan Rice for me also continued to prove why he’s invaluable. When Bellingham went off, his instinct to create the second goal was irrepressible – making a driving run into space to pass it across goal for Kane to convert was an example of his intelligence and in a nutshell, seemed to demonstrate the type of football Tuchel wants us to play.

There are for me, many other positives to take from these two games. Dan Burn showcasing how effective he can be in an England shirt – especially aerially, Myles Lewis-Skelly looks to be a cert for me at left-back for the foreseeable future and bagged on his debut against Albania. Eberechi Eze proved that he can be a game-changer against tougher opposition – also netting a debut goal against Latvia when he came on.

So yeah, there is definitely work to do but, you can see how Tuchel wants us to play and I’m encouraged by this – England fans should be as well.