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England’s new shirt may have split opinion but it is not the first time the St George’s Cross has been modified.
Fans were left in uproar this week following the release of the Three Lions new home and away shirts due to a ‘tampering’ of the cross on the back of jersey.
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Rather than the traditional red cross draped onto a white backdrop, Nike and the FA opted for a more colourful approach aimed to ‘unite and inspire’ the nation.
Reaction to the subtle change has become a huge talking point this week with fans, England players past and present and politicians all weighing into the debate.
However, images have surfaced online showing a similar amendment made to England’s home shirt in the 2011/12 season.
Before England’s current deal with Nike, Umbro were tasked with design duties in preparation for Euro 2012.
The home shirt was depicted with a host of crosses displayed in four different colours across the upper back area of the shirt.
Umbro’s rationale for the design was to represent the country’s diverse cultural make up – a similar stance to Nike’s recent offering.
But the response was minimal and in some cases the design went by completely unnoticed by fans that may not have thought twice about purchasing the kit.
Judging by the contrasting reactions, it appears that 12 years has brought about less tolerance to particular issues across the country.
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A more reactive and outspoken population has undoubtedly stoked a fire that was barely a flame not too long ago.
And in a country divided, the reaction to the kit which was released on Monday, was somewhat unsurprising.
Figures such as talkSPORT’s Simon Jordan, England record-cap holder Peter Shilton and Labour leader Keir Starmer have all voiced their displeasure at the multi-coloured flag.
Meanwhile, England stars Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka and Lionesses striker Alessio Russo gave their backing to the shirt, rating it ‘ten out of ten’.
Despite the controversy, England will debut the new kit in Saturday’s friendly against Brazil at Wembley, live on talkSPORT.
Gareth Southgate’s side face Belgium on Tuesday in the final set of fixtures before finalising his squad for the Euro in June.
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