England manager Roy Hodgson has admitted that his side are still a work in progress despite preparing to face Italy in the quarter-finals of Euro 2012.
The former West Bromwich Albion boss took charge of just two friendly matches against Norway and Belgium prior to the tournament, after limited preparation time. Hodgson has received many plaudits for the Three Lions' start to the tournament but feels that the side is still figuring itself out.
"This is a fledgling team as far as I'm concerned," said Hodgson. "But we're working at our game and showing composure on the ball and in attacking areas is always the most difficult part.
"That's where you need your Wayne Rooneys. This game will be good for him. He played well, worked hard and could have had several other goals. On the counter we were dangerous enough but we could have been more dangerous.
"They (the players) have been really good from the start. If someone said we'd win the group I don't think they'd have many takers.
"Most people didn't think we'd get out of the group. We've won it on points instead of goal difference as well."
England face Italy in the last eight of Euro 2012 in Kiev on Sunday.
Matt Cotton
