Michael Owen swims against tide and criticizes England's heroic World Cup win

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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesMichael OwenMichael Owen has questioned the reaction to England's 3-2 win over Mexico and believes the "bravery" narrative is over the top, warning the display would not stand up against France, Spain, or ArgentinaMichael Owen has offered his opinion(Image: Getty Images)Michael Owen has admitted he was underwhelmed by England's victory over Mexico and believes the response to the team's World Cup triumph has been completely overblown.The Three Lions clinched a 3-2 triumph against the co-hosts at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. England was forced to withstand a late barrage with 10 men after Jarell Quansah's dismissal, but held on.

Thomas Tuchel's players have seen the result lauded as one of their finest achievements in major tournament history, yet former Liverpool striker Owen considers the "bravery" rhetoric overblown.Instead of applauding the backs-to-the-wall showing, Owen maintains that England ought to have sought to dominate proceedings and commended Tuchel for his post-match remarks, where he refrained from celebrating and instead demanded improvements.He wrote in the Daily Mail: "I was actually relieved to hear Thomas Tuchel say afterwards that there was plenty to improve on, because that's exactly how I saw it."I thought I was going mad listening to the reaction after the game."Owen continued: "I'd be concerned if people suddenly see this as the blueprint.Thomas Tuchel led England to a famous victory at the Azteca Stadium(Image: Getty Images)"What I find encouraging is that I don't think Tuchel does."Everything I've heard from him suggests he wants a team that presses together, controls possession and has the courage to keep playing football under pressure."We haven't seen enough of that yet. There have been too many moments when England have fallen into old habits."We score, we drop deeper.

We come under pressure, we surrender possession."The Three Lions are set to meet Norway in the quarterfinals, where they're expected to progress, but Owen maintains the English approach wouldn't withstand scrutiny against the tournament's top sides should they meet later."If against France, Spain, or Argentina, England play like they did versus Mexico, we'll get our backsides kicked," said the former striker."You cannot spend long spells without the ball or keep on being sloppy with it against teams of that quality."Englans could face Argentina in the semifinals, but the Three Lions must reach the final to play either France or Spain.Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Michael OwenLiverpool FCManchester United FCEngland Football TeamFIFA World Cup