Crunch time beckons for England as stalwarts falter


MANAUS Brazil (Reuters) - England's stalwarts couldn't match the pace of guile of the team's young lions in Saturday’s 2-1 Group D defeat by Italy, raising questions about whether players such as captain Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney should still be automatic starters.

Some of England’s much improved build-up play was in stark contrast to a toothless display against the same opposition in the Euro 2012 quarterfinals, when Italy won on penalties after thoroughly dominating a goalless encounter.

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