Spain's not exactly the third world, they've done alright. Alternative hobbies and things to do might be a factor in kids not playing sport, but it's definitely not an English thing.

Same here, I live opposite a social club and I've had kids playing in the car park at 3am! They kick the ball into the shutters which they know sets the alarm off and keeps everyone in the postcode awake.

I don't disagree with kids playing football, but there's a time (daytime) and a place (like, a park or playing fields) for everything.

I know from friends living in the States some parents organise baseball teams for young people.

I understand parents don't have lots of hours in the day but perhaps communities may have to run their own after hours sports clubs. Not just for football but other sports. But then their is the problem with parents needing to have CRB checks before working with children.

Love it

So roll back modern technology and financial security to get a great national football team. Seems like a fair trade to me. Let's return to the glory days of the 1970s when England ruled the world. Or not...