Expectations were low after Euro 88. It was different to Euro 2004 where there was a belief that, after a promising WC 2002, with Brazil/Argentina out the way we could/should win it.
In 90, they weren't great v Ireland, but Gazza dominated Netherlands (then European Champions with Gullit/Rijkaard etc) and put the ball in for Wright's header v Egypt.
Pretty sure he also put the ball in for Platt's late winner v Belgium, and set up at least 1 or 2 of the goals/penalties v Cameroon, but seemed to be the creator of every attack. Then he cried when he got booked against eventual champions W Germany, after another good display.
In my view, there was a bit more to it all than Rooney smashing 4 goals in against Switzerland & Croatia (one of which should have definitely been credited as an own goal).