Gary Neville: England have overachieved

Former England international Gary Neville has said that the Three Lions overachieved by reaching the semi-final of the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia.

He said this despite the fact that England lost the semi-final to Croatia by two goals to one.

Speaking on ITV, the former Manchester United defender said: "This team have taken us to a place we never thought we’d ever imagine we’d get to. England had never overachieved, but this team have in reaching the semi-final."

Kieran Trippier gave England the lead in the fifth minute through a stunning free kick to give the fans hope of repeating 1966.

England held on to their lead until the 68th minute when Ivan Perisic equalised for the 1998 semi-finalists. Mario Mandzukic ensured Croatia will face France in the final in Moscow by scoring the winner in the second half of extra-time.

England will now face Belgium on Saturday to decide who will take the third and fourth place. England have surely given a good account of themselves in Russia and could have been in the final with a little luck.

If England continue to invest in the development of young home based talent, and engage coaches like Gareth Southgate who have belief in upcoming players, the face of English football will change for a long time to come.