Alan Shearer believes that England's performances at major tournaments have been getting "progressively worse".

The Three Lions exited Euro 2012 at the quarter-final stage last weekend to finalists Italy.

While some have praised Roy Hodgson's side for the way that they adapted to a managerial change so near to the start of the competition, Shearer has taken a more negative viewpoint.

"If we accept this level of performance, then we have given up on England." the former England striker told The Sun. "Have we dropped so far down the pecking order that we are applauding England for trying hard and being well organised?"

"I cannot remember the last time the nation celebrated the team getting out of our group.

"That used to be the least that was expected. Now it seems to be a pointer that we are heading in the right direction.

"Well, we are not. We are getting progressively worse if you look at our performances in the last three major tournaments we qualified for."

Shearer scored 30 goals for England during an eight-year international career.