I wouldnt say the players are sh1t.. although you could argue that. They are just not adaptable. Joe Cole aside how many top english players play abroad??
Even then the ones that have played abroad previously have had to be players of a slightly different nature. English players playing in england know only one way of playing.
This probably excludes a crop of around 5-10 that could possibly apply their trade elsewhere if required.... but dont because they are deemed too expensive by all but premier league clubs.
All boils back down to one thing.... grasss roots. As always the emphasis has been put on being tall, strong, powerful, fast etc etc. As an example we had a brazilian kid come and join our 6th form for a few months. His technical ability was miles ahead of anyone else.. I got on with him and asked why.
His simple answer was why would you learn to kick a ball when the others around have not learn to control it... the boy had a point. They ALWAYS trained with smaller balls, and even heavier ones to improve touch. That just doesnt happen in england.. until it does, everyone will continue to support the most overhyped team since the a-team.