Fast counter-attacking moves were also a feature of this World Cup while scoring the first goal was increasingly important.

Roxburgh added: "There has only been eight occasions when a team conceding the first goal has come back to win. It is not happening a lot."

Another change is in the holding midfield player's role.

"In the past the holding midfield player was more defensive and reinforced the back four, but the role is changing.

"Players like Michael Essien of Ghana or Andrea Pirlo of Italy are more skilful and opening fresh lines of attack from that position. They are emerging as new kinds of players, not only doing the defensive work but are now also actively involved in build-up play."

Both men also condemned the continual "simulation" or diving which has blighted many games.

"There is absolutely no place in it in football. Football is nothing if it is not played fairly," said Roxburgh."