England vs. Algeria 2010 World Cup: Must the Show Still Go On?

When asked, "what do you need more of?" Steven Gerrard simply replied, "goals."

Such was the terrible display for England against underdogs Algeria. They have given their fans nothing. Little confidence can be gained as they head towards their final group match next week.

Consequentially, frustration is moving into overkill.

"If England beat Slovenia, they are through," remarked presenter Adrian Chiles. "If" being the operative word here.

If the players get their backsides into gear and earn a continuation. If the team can work in a formation that creates goals, improves their World Cup credentials, and lays clear a game plan that others will respect.

It is so easy right now to just rant on the pitiful performance of the English side. They do not resemble a consistent and able team, and an early plane home would not be a surprising outcome.

These are players who are afforded luxurious lifestyles, purely because, at a club level, they excel.

Yet such a portrayal of mediocrity today makes us wonder what it is that is truly special about each and every player.

One day of Wayne Rooney’s wages would be enough to wipe my debt clean. A single and unremarkable 24 hours. But enough to thrust upon me a new direction, a new life.

Such a wage packet leads us to expect a spectacle. Where is that spectacle?

I have become disillusioned with the team. I do not want to become disillusioned with international football, yet I have a feeling that if the results continue to stumble along, I will sway further to alternative sports.

There are far more deserving athletes out there right now who deserve our attention. The likes of Lewis Hamilton, Andy Murray, and the Olympians for 2012 provide us with a greater opportunity to celebrate specialised talent.

On the only positive note, David James appeared vastly more constructive and defiant in goal than his predecessor.

So England, this is your warning. Like many others are screaming right now, you as a team need to regain your edge, otherwise there is no reason to return home and expect a reprieve.