Roy Hodgson vs. Gary Lineker: England Manager Will Not Cave in on Critics
After a 0-0 draw against Ukraine, England Manager Roy Hodgson is hearing it from his critics.
Former England skipper Gary Lineker, among others, said that England's performance was "awful" and questions his judgment of not picking Manchester United player Michael Carrick.
Hodgson was quick to hit back and equally criticised the ex-England mainstay.
"My disappointment would be that I saw Gary Lineker play. I'm pretty sure he played in some games when it wasn't that easy and I don't think every game he played for England was a total success." Hodgson told dailystar.co.uk.
"I'm surprised anyone who has played for England, captained England and played in games of this nature can be that critical."
This is not the first time that the England boss has heard unpleasing words from Lineker, but he remains levelheaded and will, instead, concentrate on his job.
"I'm afraid I just have to accept I do my best to placate most people, but I've just seen a group of players missing seven first-team members beat Moldova 4-0 and come to Ukraine and draw 0-0."
"You can criticise, or praise, or do whatever you want, but don't think you're going to put words into my mouth or get me agreeing with these opinions."
"I've been in football for 38 years and I will stick to my opinions. There are 60 million opinions out there."
Lineker, on the other hand, was quick to change his stance, in a seemingly attempt to dissipate the heat.
"Roy can't be blamed for some of England's finest having a bad night. With injured players returning his options will be greater," said Lineker.
"I'm fully supportive of Roy and think he's doing a good job."
Meanwhile, former England Manager Glenn Hoddle stated that Hodgson should instead concentrate on preparing for the Euros rather than the World Cup in 2014.
"We have got no chance of winning the World Cup. No-one has ever won it from Europe in South America," said Hoddle.
"Our plan has got to be better. Let's plan for the Euros."