The Daily Discussion - England Friendlies: Waste of Time?

By Si Warner

Well, no actually. Not entirely true. Every now and then we get thrown a corker. In fact, one of my earliest footballing memories was catching re-runs of Brazil versus England, in which John Barnes first catapulted himself to international fame with a slalom run through Rio de Janeiro that contained more twists and turns than an episode of Strictly Come Dancing.

More recently England and Argentina served up a five goal sizzler in Geneva with Michael Owen snatching a dramatic late winner to renew our false World Cup 2006 hopes. Sven’s (and Chris Powell’s) first game saw us impressively despatch Spain 3-0 at Villa Park in 2001, where Nick Barmby’s first half opener helped establish him as a key member of Eriksson’s early reign. A more notable playing debut against the Iberians arose in 1987 at the Bernabéu where Tony Adams, then 20, embarked on his England career. Incredibly, Gary Lineker, then of Barcelona, beat Spain 4-2 at the home of Real Madrid. Literally. He bagged all 4 goals.



Spain 2 Lineker 4



International friendlies also provide the platform for players to attempt skills they would perhaps not consider in a competitive match. Think Rene Higuita’s miraculous scorpion kick at Wembley in 1995 that illuminated a drab goal-less draw. In fact, I would be more comfortable with Robert Green emulating the Columbian the next time a ball drifts harmlessly towards his net.

Higuita's infamous 'Scorpion Kick'

Ok, so I have managed to recall only a handful of notable moments over a 30 year period that has seen England play over 150 friendlies, most of which have been absolute stinkers. But I am confident I am not alone when I declare “never again” yet somehow we can never resist tuning in with hope of discovering a new contender for that slalom run. And tonight could be that night. Arise, Sir Jack Wilshire?