Ballack slams England for 'parking three buses' in front of France goal
The former Bayern Munich and Chelsea man was critical of the Three Lions' defensive display during their Euro 2012 opener, suggesting it's not the right way to play football
Jun 12, 2012 11:33:00 AM
By Matt Scrafton
However, for large parts of the game Laurent Blanc’s side were camped in the England half but struggled to create any clear cut opportunities.
The 35-year-old Ballack was critical of the defensive manner in which Roy Hodgson set up his side, despite acknowledging that England achieved their goal of avoiding defeat in their Euro 2012 opener.
“I’m really disappointed with the game. England wanted the point and they got one, but is this the way to play football in the future? I’m not sure,” the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder said onESPN.
“If you’re parking three buses in front of the goal, that’s not football.
“They’re sitting back most of the time with 10 players, it’s difficult for every team to create chances ... I’m not impressed.”
England's second group game will be on Friday against Sweden, who lost 2-1 to co-hosts Ukraine on Monday.