Call for inquiry into what ails English football following dismal exit from World Cup

Former Football Association executive director David Davies has called for an inquiry into Three Lions dismal exit from the 2010 World Cup.
 
Sunday's 4-1 defeat to arch-rivals Germany was England's worst ever result at a World Cup.

Speaking to Sky News, he said: "We have to look at the fact that the England players in this current squad have now been playing football non-stop for 11 months."

Davies, who worked for the Football Association from 1994 to 2006, wants to see the inquiry examine the reasons why England have failed to challenge for major honours since they won the World Cup in 1966.

"If we're to achieve success on the international stage then we need to look closely at what we are asking players to do in their domestic season," said Davies.
 
Since 1966 England have reached just one semi-final in a World Cup, at Italia '90, Sky News reports.

"This isn't life or death but there are definite things wrong with English football that need serious consideration - most notably the amount of football that English players have to play every season," he said.

Davies comments appeared to be backed up by England midfielder Joe Cole who acknowledged after the Germany match that changes were needed.

He said: "We were not good enough and got beat by a better side. Plain and simple."