|
Phil Thompson played in four of the six warm-up games of 1982 prior to Ron Greenwood announcing his party for Spain. Thompson would be joined in central defensive combat by Terry Butcher and, surprisingly, Steve Foster, who had snagged a place ahead of the hugely experienced Dave Watson and the promising Alvin Martin. Many were shocked at Watson's omission - although almost 36 years of age, his knowhow was thought to be crucial in a squad which was collectively new to the World Cup experience, and he had played alongside Phil for most of the Liverpool defender's 35 caps.
Thompson was partnered by Butcher as England started their group games in style with a 3-1 win over France and a 2-0 win over Czechoslovakia (the photo above is just prior to the game). Foster got a World Cup moment in the third and final game, alongside Thompson, as England defeated Kuwait by a single goal, then Butcher was restored for the strange but winnable second group stage. England's defence was led with some degree of expertise and arrogance by the excellent Thompson as both West Germany and Spain failed to score, but crucially, England couldn't score either. Two goalless draws saw England's exit which was a personal affront to Thompson and his co-defenders as they found themselves eliminated from the competition even though they'd not lost a match and only conceded one goal. Greenwood subsequently retired and Bobby Robson gave Phil just two further caps before the obvious deterioration in his Liverpool opportunities - thanks to the burgeoning understanding between Alan Hansen and Mark Lawrenson - did for his international career.
Thompson's final game came in a qualifier for the 1984 European Championships as England beat Greece comfortably 3-0. Butcher became England's new long-term defensive lynchpin and continued Thompson's good work, although inexperience in defence was seen as a factor in England ultimately failing to reach the finals. Thompson's international career mirrored that of his distinguished Liverpool life - strong, committed, unfussy and with additional leadership when required. Only injury prevented him from winning many more caps than he ultimately did. (Matthew Rudd)
|