 On 7 July 1982, two days after England were knocked out of the 1982 World Cup, he succeeded Ron Greenwood as coach of the England national team, selecting former West Bromwich Albion teammate Don Howe as his chief coach.Robson's first match in charge saw immediate controversy, as he dropped Kevin Keegan for the match against Denmark.On 21 September 1983, Robson suffered his only loss in the 28 qualifying matches he was to undertake as England manager.