Fostering a bond: England players visited the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial and former concentration camp, in Oswiecim, Poland

Perversely, people have twisted the pessimism into something else. This near-complete lack of expectation has led to a bizarre ‘logic’ where some genuinely believe England will do well — because it is assumed we won’t.
 If I haven’t lost you already, the argument, as I understand it, seems to be that because the squad are ostensibly poorer than any in recent years, the pressure is off and this offers England a better chance of victory.

 Why didn’t we think of this ruse before? If this is the yardstick of likely success, then the favourites, Germany and Spain, are out of it already while the Republic of  Ireland will surely walk away with the trophy because nobody gives them a prayer.

 Such thinking says a great deal about the human spirit. Or it  demonstrates there are enough deranged mugs out there swallowing this reverse psychology  claptrap to keep bookmakers and casinos in business for ever.

 After a bit of spin-doctor coaching, no doubt, Wayne Rooney delivered an upbeat assessment as the team touched down in Poland.

 ‘We know we’re good enough to make the semis or the final,’ he said. ‘If people don’t believe that, then it’s up to them, but I don’t see why we can’t.’

Maybe it’s because they’re not wearing his red-rose tinted spectacles. Of course, Rooney has to sound positive and it is right  and proper he should talk a good game. But what a shame he can’t play it too.

 His stupid red card against Montenegro means he misses the opening two group matches and England could be out of the tournament by the time he has a chance to kick a ball rather than an opponent.

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