Hanworth Villa · Non League Div One - Play-offs · Midfielder · #0 · England · 0 yrs
Newcastle's Dan Burn says he is "very proud" of England's World Cup campaign, but Wednesday's semi-final exit to Argentina will "haunt me for a while". Burn was brought on in the 82nd minute alongside fellow defender Nico O'Reilly with the Three Lions 1-0 up, but could not perform similar heroics to those seen in previous rounds as the World Champions scored two late goals. "Gutted," Burn told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.
Standing between England and a second World Cup final appearance is Lionel Messi's Argentina, and Manchester City's Nico O'Reilly is relishing the "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to face the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. It will be the first time Messi has faced England and, at 39, it could be the last. O'Reilly has never faced him at club level either.
Since 2006, every World Cup winner has dropped points in their first or second group game - but what they have also done each time is go on to win their group. One change I can see happening is at left-back, with Nico O'Reilly coming back in for Djed Spence. O'Reilly got in some great positions, offered more on the ball and was also very unlucky when his header hit the bar.
Don't forget his attacking threat and, although Nico O'Reilly has been exceptional, having Josko play centre or left back is a huge asset. Temperament looks first rate as well and he will help the younger centre-backs grow and mature. An exceptional player who may well prove to be one of the best the Premier League has seen.
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