Lineker: It's my right to speak out

Former England captain Gary Lineker insists he has no intention of watering down his opinions when it comes to the national team.

The Match of the Day host condemned England's inability to retain possession in the World Cup qualifying goalless draw in Ukraine on Tuesday.

England manager Roy Hodgson was taken aback by the criticism, insisting no apology was needed from England for the 0-0 result.

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

"If you are prepared to seriously stand there and say the England team I am coaching can't keep the ball and play out from the back or play through the midfield there is no point having a conversation because we just totally disagree."

Lineker has pledged to continue being forthright in his views, however.

"I will continue to give my honest opinions about football," he wrote on Twitter on Thursday.

"I believe I'm entitled to. As are we all. You can agree or disagree. All good."

There has been much debate about England's style of football under Hodgson.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez believes any judgements should be reserved until after the qualifying campaign.

"There has been a lot of talk about this. In any qualifying group, assessing how the team has played comes at the end of that period," said the Spaniard, who has gained a reputation for flowing, possession football during his time in England with Swansea, Wigan and now the Toffees.

"Everyone wants to qualify. England have two home games now. It could be the point (in Ukraine) that allows England to qualify at the top of the group.

"I think we are getting carried away. I think we should be a bit more calm about assessing the performance of the team."