"We would have the best team if we could go into every household and throw away every PlayStation, XBox and video game,"(thisislondon) said West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green after watching England fail to qualify for Euro 2008.
Did he mean that, literally, video games are crippling England's international football? I don't think so. It seems to be an implication that English youth are focusing too much on video games instead of football, that kids desire to score a hundred goals on FIFA '08 more than they do a hundred goals in the Premiership. His comment seems to be more than just a comment, though, because it really sounds like it came from his core, from what he really feels. You may think I'm reading into his words a bit, but I think they and his actions are very revealing about how much Green really loves his country and the game.
After the match against Croatia, many offered bitter opinions as to why England failed, but Green's opinion was different, perhaps more genuine. He didn't blame the FA, he didn't blame the coach and he didn't blame the players, even though he is a player working hard to get on the squad. Lauded by many, he has been waiting for his chance to lay claim to England's #1, but, as of yet, with no reward. Has being denied made him resentful or bitter toward the game? No. Instead of complaining he has continued to work hard and shine for his club. And, even though he hasn't gotten his chance to represent England, he has continued to support the squad. In fact, although not being selected to feature in the match against Austria days prior to the Croatia clash, Green actually payed his own way to Vienna to see it. Then, as the Mirror reported, "joined fans on a Saturday morning flight home to City Airport" the day after the match.
Some have analyzed Green's video game crack as plausible, others laughable, but I would label it more cathartic. He doesn't have a column and isn't vying for a now vacant coaching position, could it be that he just commented because he cares? Because he is disappointed too and wants to see English soccer thrive once again? If not, what else could he possibly have to gain from his statement? The answer is nothing. He just wants England to succeed.
Can England resurrect its international game by getting more kids off video games and onto the pitch? Maybe, maybe not. Regardless, Green's answer is a step in the right direction for the Three Lions because he, himself, is a step in the right direction. He is a player who honestly cares.
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