It was the oddest of introductions to this strangest of World Cup years.
An experimental England defeated Switzerland on Saturday but few were satisfied.
It was ever thus. Gareth Southgate may be England’s most successful manager since Sir Alf Ramsey but for a significant portion of those observing it sometimes feels as if the credit he has banked can be withdrawn at any moment.
Southgate’s record with England is excellent: a run to the Euros final, a fourth placed finish at the World Cup and a run to last four in the inaugural Nations League. Add to that sailing through three qualifying tournaments and dispersing the toxic culture around the England set-up and the revival he has overseen has been nothing short of remarkable.
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That Southgate fell short against Croatia and Italy is true, but also the nature of being an international manager. You live in big moments and Southgate could equally be remembered for the set piece wins against Germany or Denmark, when he made the right calls in big moments.
Criticised for persevering with Raheem Sterling, out of form for his club, he was repaid with a starring role in the tournament. Harry Maguire may look a diminished man in Manchester red but for England he excels.
His conservatism in the Wembley final last summer contributed to Italy roaring back into the game but it also accounts for how England navigated their way to that final when other fancied teams looked to have no shape, identity or clue.
International management requires a different sort of skillset from club football and Southgate appreciates that. You cannot always impress or excite and winning teams are forged in defensive solidity.
It sometimes feels as if Southgate has made it all look a bit too easy. Whatever happens in Qatar, no-one would have seen a period like the one he has overseen coming. We should appreciate it while we’ve got it.
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