Roy Hodgson taken aback by Gary Lineker's criticism

Hodgson pictured after England’s goalless draw with Ukraine

England boss Roy Hodgson stated that he is “surprised” after being at the receiving end of criticism from former player Gary Lineker after England’s lackluster performance against Ukraine on Tuesday. BBC Sport reports.

Lineker was left disappointed after the Three Lions failed to find the back of the net in Kiev.

The former England international’s observations we’re questioned by Hodgson who felt that there was nothing wrong with his match decisions.

“I am surprised that anyone who has played for England, captained England and played in games of this nature can be that critical,” Hodgson said.

England remain atop Group H after gaining a point from the match against Ukraine.

If England’s last two games against Montenegro and Poland end in victory the Lions qualify for next year’s finals in Brazil.

Lineker netted 48 goals in 80 appearances for England, a record surpassed only by Bobby Charlton, stated in a tweet that was later deleted that Hodgson’s side we’re “awful” and added: “What happens to some of these players when they pull on an England shirt?”.

The 52-year-old stated that England’s tactics we’re “a step back to the dark ages” when the played Ireland in May. Lineker later pledged his support to Hodgson.

He said: “I’d like to make it clear I’m fully supportive of Roy and think he’s doing a good job.”

But Hodgson added: “He has done it for the second time.

“I remember Gary Lineker playing, I remember him captaining the team and playing some great games for England.

“But I am pretty sure he also played in some games where it wasn’t that easy. I don’t think every game he played for the England side was a total success.”

Asked about his tactics in Ukraine, Hodgson said: “Did we play longer balls forward early? Yes, we did.

“We didn’t want to play out from the back and invite pressure.”

Lineker was one of the best England players in the world during his time, enjoying spells with top clubs like Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona.