England manager Roy Hodgson defended Ashley Young and Ashley Cole after they failed to score in the Euro 2012 penalty shoot-out defeat by Italy.

England were outplayed for most of a game that finished goalless after 120 minutes, before Italy won the spot-kick shoot-out 4-2.

"Anyone can miss a penalty," said Hodgson. "They were not nonchalant.

"Ashley Young's smashed against the bar and Ashley Cole's was well saved by [Italy keeper] Gianluigi Buffon."

He added: "A player's reputation should not be forged on a penalty shoot-out, their reputation should be forged on the four games and in those four games we have not lost.

"We stuck to our guns right until the end and the players should be very proud of what they did.

"I have learnt a lot about the players and their determination and dedication to the task and the fact they are so keen to play for England.

"There were some heroic performances not only tonight but also in the previous three games."

More to follow.