And just like that football's never-ending schedule swings back round to the Premier League season, the weekly grind where consistency is rewarded.
This summer galvanised England fans in tournament football, a penalty shootout all that separated them from a first major international trophy since 1966.
For Gareth Southgate's stars it is back to the day job and for many it has been far from a seamless transition.

For every Luke Shaw, who slotted in seamlessly for Manchester United against Everton in the final round of pre-season fixtures at the weekend, there is Jordan Pickford.