21st of November 2007 was one of the lowest points for English football. Never have I ever seen such a lacklustre, disorganised, and uninspiring performance from a group of world-class athletes.

Other than their tactical and strategic ineptitude, the team’s psychological game was also lacking.

Firstly after Carson’s inexplicable loss of focus, the team’s heads went down causing a consequent loss of confidence and a lack of mental toughness.

Secondly, towards the end of the match, the team appeared to start trying too hard to force the match their way that their efforts became counter-productive. Arguably this may have been down to a switch from a process-orientated mindset to one only driven by the outcome of the event alone.

Becoming preoccupied with the thought winning, does not provide you with any insight on how to win.

Thirdly, there was no team cohesion, and a clear lack of interpersonal awareness and understanding within the collective unit. As Gestalt psychologists state: ‘the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’

Fourthly on a personal note I also think that there is still a 'fear of failure' culture within the England setup. Symptomatic of this negative culture are erratic performances, unforced errors, a lack of focus, and a lack of team cohesion. Sound familiar?

Although past psychologists have tried to eradicate this crippling mindset, after yesterday’s performance it may still be lingering on within the camp.

The England camp have a lot of work on their hands!