Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton has urged England fans not to panic after their disappointing World Cup opener against the USA.

Reflecting on the 1-1 draw, Charlton wrote in his column for the Mail on Sunday: "I do not usually look back to the World Cup in 1966 to make a point. But it might prove an important consolation for younger readers to realise that we only drew our opening match in that tournament as well.

"The expectations were huge when hosting the World Cup in England and I still remember feeling the national misery after our first match ended in a 0-0 draw against Uruguay at Wembley.

"I mention the game to show that however bad supporters feel today, there is still hope. We turned it around in 1966 and although I am not bold enough to say England will go from here and win the World Cup, I am still optimistic this team can go a long way in South Africa.

"I was in Rustenburg last night and there were some good things to admire about England. They played well at times and created enough chances to win the game. We were comfortable enough until a mistake from goalkeeper Robert Green that, I'm afraid, is part and parcel of football. In the second half, we were positive and should have wrapped it up but messed up a few times in front of goal.

"I am thinking, in particular, of the opportunity that fell to Emile Heskey when he was put clean through. That is the type of chance strikers should thrive on. The Americans were unbelievably fit and resilient but whereas I can't see them improving in the two remaining group games, there is plenty more to come from us."