PRIOR to the World Cup not many people were backing England to make a big impression in the tournament but it seems the nation’s mood is beginning to change.

After the 2-1 victory over Tunisia in the opening game, hopes are high that England can make a giant step towards the knockout stages by claiming victory over Panama on Sunday.

Plus, let’s face it, there has yet to be a standout team among the pre-tournament favourites with Spain, Germany, Argentina and even Brazil looking rather pedestrian.

Admittedly, Croatia and Belgium have been the pick of the bunch so far and look dangerous, but England have a young well-balanced squad and in Gareth Southgate, who was brought up in Crawley, they have a manager who has slotted into the role with considerable panache.

England have flattered to deceive on many occasions since their triumph on home soil way back in 1966, so it easy to see why many fans prefer to err on the side of caution.

There have been major disappointments to with the World Cup semi-final defeat in 1990 and losing out in the last four of Euro 96.

Both were heartbreaking for England fans, but those among The Argus staff are actually beginning to believe that Southgate’s men could be real contenders.

Thousands of fans will congregate on the seafront on Sunday to watch the action on a big screen and the pubs will be crammed to the rafters to cheer the team on.

The message is simple: “Come on England, and don’t let us down”.