England friendlies spotlight defensive woes but Phil Neville deserves time | Suzanne Wrack


Belgium and Norway games again exposed frailties at the back but manager should be given a chance to make improvements

Five goals conceded, four scored. England’s travels to Belgium and Norway have been bountiful. Just not in the right way.

If England’s 3-0 victory in the World Cup quarter-final against Norway gave the impression that Phil Neville’s team had clicked, then a 2-1 defeat by the same side just over two months later, albeit in a friendly and pre-season, has had a chastening effect.

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