ANOTHER finals over, another failure on penalties for England. But beneath the frustration, it's worth remembering Roy Hodgson had just a few weeks with these players to implement his tactics.

Undoubtedly in the time he has had with the squad he has made them more organised and disciplined defensively. The two banks of four, with the wingers regularly tracking back, illustrated that.

What Hodgson must ensure is that they can become just as effective in the opposite direction. If they can attack with purpose - and keep the ball for longer than they did against Italy - then the next few years could be worth watching for England fans.

He will make changes, that's for sure. If Arsenal's Jack Wilshere can return from injury in the shape he was in before his lay-off then England will suddenly have a player more than capable of making things tick in the middle.

That should still be alongside Steven Gerrard. What Euro 2012 has shown is that Gerrard, even if he's not getting any younger, still has the hunger and desire to succeed in a Three LIons shirt - as captain.

If those two form the hub of his midfield then Hodgson must come up with the wing-men he can rely on through qualifying and at the World Cup. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, he will hope, will be one. Ashley Young, despite his failings, should be another.

But look out for Raheem Sterling. The Liverpool winger, not 18 until December, could just become a wild card over the next few years, both at Anfield and on the international stage.

England maybe out of the Euros, but there's plenty to be positive about...