COULD THIS be the year England win the World Cup?

It is important we do not get too carried away, but why not?

England fans have been used to bitter disappointment in recent years, but our current team are playing with vim and vigour and in Harry Kane, who scored a hattrick in the 6-1 rout over Panama yesterday, we have a talisman and captain who certainly leads by example.

The thousands of supporters who crammed on to the beach in Brighton are certainly beginning to believe, judging by the upbeat mood as they streamed into the city centre in late afternoon, many clutching bottles of beer as the celebrations began in earnest.

It is truly amazing to witness the aftermath of an excellent performance by the England football team, as it truly lifts the spirits of the city and indeed the entire nation, well at least those who don’t support Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, nor any of the other competing countries.

The weather simply could not have been better for those who made their way to the beach and it was heartening to see so many families taking the opportunity to cheer on the team together.

England are now through to the next round of the competition regardless of what happens in their final group game against Belgium, although it is to be hoped that they can keep the momentum going against one of the pre-tournament favourites.

For now though we can bask in the glow of an excellent performance from the entire team and dream that they can replicate the heroics of 1966.

It is a big ask but not beyond the realms of possibility.