Everyone has an opinion on the national team but there are few who are willing to voice it at MK Dons in front of Dean Lewington, son of England Assistant Manager Ray.
Over a year ago it was confirmed that former-Watford boss Ray would depart his role as assistant to Martin Jol at Fulham to join Roy Hodgson at the helm of the England football team and it has been a whirlwind 12 months for the Lewington family ever since.
“He was with Roy at Fulham and got on really well with him, but when he told me he was going to get the job with England it was a bit surreal. It is such a massive job; the attention on everything England does is incredible.
“It’s very full-on and there will be pages and pages and page in the paper. It’s mind-boggling how much goes around each England game, all the planning, preparation, selection it’s a lot to take on board. I’m really proud of my dad, it’s a great achievement for him and I hope they can make it to the World Cup.”
Last night England drew 2-2 in a friendly against Brazil at the iconic Maracana stadium as England signed off their campaign before their preparations begin next season for the World Cup Qualifying matches against Moldova, Ukraine, Montenegro and Poland later this year.
Dean, who followed in his father’s footsteps by playing for Wimbledon, admits that life without the day-to-day routine of club football has been a change but believes Roy and Ray are enjoying their time with the England set-up.
“He’s settled into the role really well, he’s really enjoying it but not doing day-to-day that he’s used to is something he has had to adjust to because he’s had a lot more time to himself.
“He’s enjoying it. It’s a big challenge working in the England set-up because there’s a lot of opinions and people who think they know better, so it’s quite strange seeing people telling my dad how to do his job.”
Has Dean ever over-heard the Dons players talking about England and questioning the tactics?
“Football is all about opinions so the lads here are entitled to theirs; no one has gone quite when I’ve walked in the room after an England game yet! I suppose a few of them have been quite complimentary, maybe they’re hoping for call-ups so are staying on my good side?”
