England’s 1966 World Cup triumph changed this country of football fanatics forever.
While it was in the English public schools that football took its modern shape, the national team had struggled to impose itself on the international arena.
Twenty years after the end of World War II the country was still suffering from a lack of confidence as it continued to rebuild.
“We were always great losers, we might take the lead in certain games, but we always came unstuck,” said English Australian Billy Blunden, who was old enough to remember the 1966 final vividly.
When Geoff Hurst’s famous goal secured England a 4-2 triumph against West Germany, a sense of self belief washed over the country.
“Beating Germany in the final gave England that hope, we've won something, we're proud of our country,” said English Australian Hish Hamden.
Since then the Three Lions have struggled to live up to expectation – often bowing out in a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out defeats.
But for this World Cup, English supporters have more modest hopes.
“Compared to previous World Cups I don't think the expectation is as high. We've got a relatively young squad, so I certainly think that relieves a bit of the pressure,” said English Australian Andrew Jamieson.
Placed in a group alongside two time world champions Uruguay, four time winners Italy and Costa Rica, the bare minimum will be enough for this Three Lions outfit.
“In that heat and in those conditions, if we get through the group stage, which is a tough ask, then I think we've done well,” said English Australian Jake Healey.
With the pressure of a nation off their shoulders, this young England squad may even go on to surprise everyone.
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