I'm sorry but that's really bollocks. Uruguay was our only proper "poor" performance and even then we came close to getting a result. We lost by ONE goal, one moment in each of those 2 games, it was very fine margins. We played far better football than in 2012 or 2010.
Completely agreed. Reaction after this exit was utterly ridiculous - seemed everyone had said they would dampen expectations but then forgot to do it. I think England and Italy punched themselves out by going so hell for leather in that first game.
I agree that we are 2nd tier, but I don't see why it should be depressing? If anything I think it's better to have lower expectations - sort of like "Would you rather be in the Premiership but get bummed every week or be competitive in the Championship." Let's accept our status, and try to enjoy...