In the end, England's exit from a major tournament was the same old story that we have seen over the last few years. They beat teams of inferior quality, only to fall at the first hurdle when facing strong opposition.
They had good spells in the game against France, but there was a sense that they could have done more to win the game. They failed to take risks or capitalise on their dominance at times.
It is something that has become a common theme under Gareth Southgate, who has come in for some criticism due to his conservative tactics.
Regardless of the cause, it is clear that this group is currently lacking something that is stopping them from getting over the line.
Roy Keane questions England's record in big games
Roy Keane has been largely complimentary about England's performances at this World Cup, the game against France included.
However, he made it clear in the aftermath of that game that this was yet another example of a missed opportunity for this group at major tournaments. He doubled down on those comments tonight.
Speaking on ITV this evening, the Irishman gave a fairly straightforward assessment of England's lack of killer instinct on the big stage.
That's where the players have to take control.
I suppose it might be a lack of experience in big tournaments and big games, I know a lot of the England players have won trophies at club level.
When we were at the game against France the other night, I describe when you\re in that position and you have your foot on somebody's throat, you've got to press down. Don't ease off.
If you take the pressure off a good team like France, and when you're in the quarter-finals they're going to have quality, as soon as they eased off the got punished for it.
It's fine details, if Harry Kane scored that penalty (who knows). You go back to it, you have that play and possession, you've got to find a way to win.
What England are doing in a lot of these big games, is they're finding a way to lose...
I think Gareth should stay, but in his mind if he thinks he has ran his race for them, then don't hang around and move on.
He's not wrong.
Roy Keane knows a thing or two about what it takes to win big games, having done so countless times during his playing career. He clearly feels there is something lacking in this England group that is stopping them from doing so, something it is difficult to disagree with.
SEE ALSO: Damien Duff Explains Why Ireland Can't Replicate The Success Of Croatia
