As England make a steady if somewhat understated start to the European championships a quiet confidence seems to grow. Nobody is getting carried away and for the first time in decades there are no triumphant boasts of ‘The Golden Generation’.

Expectations are low and press coverage, for once, is understated. Yet there seems to be a growing wave of tempered optimism amongst the fans. Phrases such as steady, compact, organised and workman-like abound.

Maybe after 46 years the England Euro 2012 song should have no lions in the verses. How’s this for a lyric? – “I’m not waiting anymore.”

So in quiet optimism why not play the Tom Gee Band – ‘Waiting’?

Come on England – “Put your money where your mouth is…”