Manager of England Fabio Capello

Manager: Fabio Capello
Captain: John Terry
FIFA Ranking: 8
World Cup appearances: 12
World Cup Winner: 1966 

England Article: Squad

England Team Profile

England, sometimes referred to as ‘Three Lions‘, are a nation of which big things are always expected of them. Their loyal followers back home in what is a football mad country, always raise the expectation levels whenever a major tournament passes by their doorstep, and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa will be no different.

The English are well renowned for their big fan base and the news is there will be over 100,000 English supporters in South Africa cheering their team on to what they hope will be World Cup glory, and they head to South Africa in high spirits after the English sailed through qualification. However, the ease at which England bypassed what seemed a pretty competitive Group at the time, will only add to the demand of the English public back home in a nation which expects a Golden delivery.

It used to be Spain who held the mantle for being the biggest underachievers in World football, but then the Spanish claimed the 2008 European Championship and the tag fell onto England’s shoulders, as the English haven’t lifted a major International trophy since 1966 when they won the World Cup on home soil. It’s been an absolute age without anything to celebrate, and what hurts the English supporters the most is England have rarely even looked like going close to winning either a World Cup or a European Championship. That should hopefully change in South Africa but England have a knack of disappointing.

Manager

It’s fair to say that Capello‘s appointment at the England helm wasn’t exactly met with open arms by every England fan, although everyone knew changes were needed after their failure to even qualify for the 2008 European Championships. Fabio Capello, a manager with a seemingly flawless and impeccable managerial CV, was brought in to restore some English pride that was previously lost through their failings to reach the last major tournament, and Capello’s honesty about England’s chances of reaching South Africa was like a breathe of fresh air, as Capello claimed England would definitely make South Africa’s show-piece. The Italian was to be right as England stormed through qualification, becoming one of the first few teams in the European sector to book their plane tickets to South Africa, to the relief of a football hungry nation.

Fabio Capello has been a revelation for England, installing some Italian discipline into the England camp which was certainly missing during Steve McClaren’s and Sven Goran Eriksson’s reigns as England coach. The players now respect the coach and feel privilege to be a part of the England set up once again, something that was also missing from the England camp before Capello’s appointment. The players know no-one is safe from Capello’s sharpened axe, and that everyone’s place is up for grabs should they not perform. Capello’s disciplined manner and approach has greatly improved how the England team operates and they are arguably entering into a World Cup in the best form of any of the recent England teams, so the expectation levels back home are rightly high, and it’s all down to one man – Fabio Capello.

With England having gone nearly a decade without a World Cup, Fabio Capello could etch his name into English folklore should he mastermind a successful campaign in South Africa. With the English fans, though, he’ll simply be known as a ‘Legend’ forever.

England Key Players

John Terry

It’s been a turbulent year for the former England skipper, who only this year relinquished his hold of the captain’s armband thanks to his infidelity issues, a subject we will try to avoid for now. Some were hoping it would make John Terry stronger, Terry against the world they hoped, but it did have a big affect on the Chelsea defender, and for all the wrong reasons. Thereafter, however, Terry’s performances for Chelsea declined and he was no longer seen as the rock at the heart of the Chelsea defence.

Nevertheless, there’s an immensely talented defender within John Terry waiting for it’s rebirth. At his best he can take the form of the world’s best centre back, commanding his defence in his authoritative manner, reading the play with precision and never afraid to get stuck in with a bold but fair tackle. He’s been a little off form before the World Cup finals, but England fans will be hoping John Terry quickly bounces back to his reliable self in time for a successful World Cup challenge.

Steven Gerrard

The Liverpool skipper didn’t have the best of seasons for his club as they endured one of their worst campaign for some time, while Gerrard has had his fair share of England critics down the years, so Gerrard, who will be making his third apperance in the finals of a World Cup, will have something to prove in South Africa. His commitment in an England shirt has been brought into question on more than one occasion, as the Liverpool born midfielder seemingly doesn’t play in the same forceful and constructive manner for his country like he does for his club, Liverpool.

Steven Gerrard is arguably the very best at what he does and his game is about several aspects, all of which he does to a very high standard. The accuracy of his passing is second to none; switching the ball from flank to flank isn’t a problem for the Merseyside star, tracking back and helping out in defence he does to a more than satisfactory level, while the standard at which he creates chances for everyone else, and the regularity of them, are both outstanding and admirable. However, the one crucial factor you get with Gerrard that you don’t with most Midfielders is this unique ability to defy adversity time and time again. Granted he’s only really produced something wonderful and spectacular for Liverpool and not for England, but the simple fact he’s saved Liverpool from the pits of despair on half-a-dozen occasions in his illustrious career is a huge positive for every England fan as the Three Lions could be in a position where exit from the competition looks imminent, but when you have a player in your team which you know can pop up with the goods when everyone else’s luck is out, it’s priceless and that’s the best word to desribe Steven Gerrard, regardless of whether or not he’s having a bad game or a bad tournament, Gerrard’s winning mentality is priceless and he can win any game of football at any given time.

With Steven Gerrard in your team, you can never be out of a game until the final whistle rings. If Gerrard has a big tournament this summer, then so do England!

Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney was pushing Lionel Messi, the kid some are saying is looking more and more likely to be the greatest ever, all the way for Europe’s biggest player accolade before injuries spurred his chances of personal glory with the FIFA Player of the Year award. Rooney isn’t all about winning awards though, although he does enter into the World Cup in the knowledge that he was rated the Premiership’s best player for the 2009-2010 season. No, Rooney is a team player and he will strive to ensure England enjoy a good run in South Africa.

Within a year Wayne Rooney has seemingly been transformed into the complete striker, almost the perfect player in many respects. Sir Alex Ferguson has added versatility to his game, boosted his temperament and and converted the former play-maker into a goalscoring machine. Rooney always had goals in him but he was never scoring them with the alarming regularity that he is now. He’s been playing in a more central role up front for his club and it’s paid dividends, with Rooney ending the campaign with 26 league goals, while England were reaping the benefits of Rooney’s new found lease of forward life as the Manchester United striker finished a successful qualifying campaign as England’s most prolific forward with 9 goals in 9 qualifiers; averaging a goal every game for his country.

Rooney’s fiery attitude has cost him and England in previous tournaments, but the Liverpool born star has matured significantly in recent seasons and is now in the shape and form of his life. South Africa could be a huge tournament for Wayne Rooney as he looks to show the rest of the world what everyone in England has been talking about.

Strengths

The support England will get from their travelling fans will be amazing throughout their time in South Africa, and so long as the Three Lions keep progressing, the support will grow and grow. There will be over 100,000 English fans in South Africa to watch their team take on some of the World’s greatest football teams aiming to get a glimpses at perhaps the first England side to win the prestigious tournament since 1966. The fans will be in full voice at their games, and in plentiful supply, so whoever comes up against England will need to quieten the crowd if they wish to thwart England’s bid for glory.

The strength is depth is also a massive plus. England have genuine world-class quality in every position, while their back up is also first class. However, it’s the strength of their starting line up which will leave many nations in awe. Their defence consists of two of the World’s best defenders in John Terry (Chelsea captain) and Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United vice-captain), while Ashley Cole is rated as one of the World’s best left-backs. The midfield looks very solid yet full of creative spark and guile, with Gareth Barry sat in that holding role while Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard dictate the play just in front of him. The latter two also have goals in them, Lampard especially as he takes England’s spot-kicks. Gerrard can strike a ball from just about anywhere, and if England need a piece of magic at some stage, don’t be surprised if Steven Gerrard steps up to the mark. Up front we of course have Wayne Rooney – One of the World’s best on current form. 

Weaknesses

England do lack an out-an-out striker and as a result, means the Three Lions aren’t as danger from an attacking point-of-view as one might wish for. That may sound a tad amusing considering England finished with one of the higher goal returns during qualifying from the European sector, but the English were dominant in their group and often strolled through their qualifiers against the lesser nations. Against those with stronger defences, England will need more fire-power up top to break them down and could be found wanting if Wayne Rooney, a man upon the nations hopes are resting, doesn’t perform to the high standard we’ve all come to expect, or if he isn’t found a suitable striking partner. Fabio Capello has tested several forward partners for Rooney, and it would seem Emile Heskey is set to lead the line alongside the feisty Scouser.

Also, more than ever before perhaps, we rely heavily upon the displays and performances of one man – Wayne Rooney. The Manchester United forward was in scintillating form for his club during the 2009-2010 season and finished as the club’s top goalscorer, but he’s let his country down in previous tournaments, while injuries have also played havoc with his International progress on the big stage. Without him, England aren’t as threatening or intimidating, and that’s a huge concern.

England Qualification for the World Cup

Sector: Europe

Group: 6

Position: 1st

Win-Draw-Lose: 9-0-1

Goals Scored: 34

Goals Conceded: 6

World Cup Potential: 5/5

Will 2010 be the year England’s dreams become a reality? The expectation levels are always high with the England supporters, and it’s to be expected as rarely do they take a weak squad into a major tournament. 2010 will be no different and it will in fact be one of the stronger squads England have ever had in South Africa, so a big tournament should beckon for the Three Lions.

There are expected to be somewhere around 150,000 English fans in South Africa by the time the finals kick-off, so every English game should be packed out with English supporters. The support will be tremendous, as it always is, but once again there is tonnes of pressure on the England squad to perform and to deliver the goods in the form of the FIFA World Cup,after so many years of heartache and empty promises. We all say it every World Cup but this could be the year when England end the wait with their first World Cup victory since 1966.

England World Cup Betting Odds

England to win the World Cup:         8/1 – William Hill

Before the World Cup the odds on England were 8/1 

Official England World Cup Squad

Goalkeepers

Joe Hart (Birmingham City)

David James (Portsmouth)

Robert Green (West Ham United)

Defenders

Jamie Carragher (Liverpool)

Ashley Cole (Chelsea)

Michael Dawson (Tottenham Hotspur)

Glen Johnson (Liverpool)

Ledley King (Tottenham Hotspur)

John Terry (Chelsea)

Matthew Upson (West Ham United)

Stephen Warnock (Aston Villa) 

Midfielders

Gareth Barry (Manchester City)

Michael Carrick (Manchester United)

Joe Cole (Chelsea)

Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

Aaron Lennon (Tottenham Hotspur)

James Milner (Aston Villa)

Shaun Wright-Phillips (Manchester City)

Strikers

Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

Peter Crouch (Tottenham Hotspur)

Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)

Emile Heskey (Aston Villa)

last update: 18 June 2010

World Cup 2010 England Fixtures – Group C

27/06 – 15.00 – Round of the last 16: England – Germany: 1-4

World Cup 2010 Group C - Table

World Cup Fixtures and Results

Capello to hold talks with FA

It was bound to come up. England crashed out of the 2010 FIFA World Cup at the hands of old rivals Germany, and immediately speculation over the national coach is brought to light. While Fabio Capello has said that he is not about to quit his post after failing to take England beyond the second round, he is going to have talks with the FA. The get-out-clause which was written into Capello’s initial contract, was re-discussed and taken out just before the World Cup, as there were fears that he would be poached by Inter Milan. The clause stated that either party could sever the ties mutually after the World Cup without any problems. So was that move by the FA a bit hasty? While Capello had an extremely successful qualification campaign in getting England to the World Cup in the first place, that form clearly did not push on through to the World Cup. Is Capello at fault? Is the failure down to the players? Is it a combination of both? Italy’s failure at the World Cup has already cost Marcello Lippi his job, as Cesare Prandelli was named as new coach, and will Capello be the next high profile casualty of the 2010 FIFA World Cup?

Capello after a honeymoon period in the job, suddenly found himself being criticised for his poor language skills in English at the World Cup, as well as his rigidity in not changing formation and for sticking with playing players out of position. The relationship between Capello, the FA and the players suddenly all seemed a bit fractious, and with the disappointment of England’s overall performance at South Africa 2010, talks about Capello’s possible successor will be fuelling many headlines. Capello will address the media again on Monday in England’s last press conference. While he may be bemoaning Frank Lampard’s goal that never was, but on a whole, England were simply not good enough. The England squad looks as if it needs an overhaul and will the FA wanted new blood at the helm, or will they trust in Capello to fulfil his contract to work with a crop new, younger players? England start their qualification campaign for Euro 2012 in September, with fixtures to come against Bulgaria, Switzerland, Montenegro and Wales. That will have a houseful of pressure on any new manager, if Capello and England part company, will the FA fall back on an Englishman to lead the national side?

Next Permanent England Manager Odds

Harry Redknapp – 4/1 at SkyBet
Roy Hodgson – 4/1 at SkyBet
Martin O’Neill – 10/1 at Victor Chandler
Terry Venables – 12/1 at Coral
Stuart Pearce – 14/1 at Paddy Power
Marcello Lippi – 16/1 at SkyBet
Guus Hiddink  -18/1 at Paddy Power
Frank Rijkaard – 20/1 at Victor Chandler
Sam Alardyce – 20/1 at Paddy Power
Mark Hughes – 20/1 at SkyBet
Steve Coppell – 25/1 at Victor Chandler
Alan Curbishly – 25/1 at Victor Chandler
Steve Bruce – 25/1 at Paddy Power
David Beckham – 33/1 at William Hill
Kevin Keegan – 66/1 at Victor Chandler
 

England v Slovenia Betting Odds

England to win: 1/2 at SkyBet
Draw: 10/3 at Bet365
Slovenia to win: 7/1 at Paddy Power

England

England coach Fabio Capello has apparently already made the decision of who will partner John Terry at the heart of England’s defence for their crucial final match of Group C. With Ledley King injured and Jamie Carragher suspended, West Ham’s Matthew Upson will get his chance to step up to the plate. Upson was called upon plenty of times during England’s qualification campaign, and it was to some surprise that Capello picked King and Carragher ahead of him. Without ever really shining, Upson is a steady defender, and may provide just a little more pace at the back than either King or Carragher could. While this change was forced upon the England boss, there are more changes brewing though apparently, with Capello saying that he will probably change others. The most likely other change would striker Emile Heskey dropping out of the starting eleven, as England need to go in search of goals. The last time England failed at the group stage of a World Cup, was in 1958.

England simply need to win against Slovenia in order to progress to the second round as expected. They were tipped to win the group from the off, and they can still do, but it was all supposed to be a lot easier than they have made it. England have struggled through two drawn matches, which may not prove to be too much of a disaster, but they have looked very slow with their running, passing and general movement. Whether it all down to the pressure and weight of expectation, but something needs to give. Even England’s talisman Wayne Rooney has looked below his best, but then the supply to him from midfield has been extremely poor. Fabio Capello held an opening meeting with his players after the dire performance against Algeria, giving everyone a chance to air their views. There have been rumours about the players not enjoying the Capello system, but that is hard to buy into after it is the same system which served them so successfully through qualification.

England look a shadow of the team they were during European qualification, and it is hard to put a question on why. Maybe over confidence. Maybe the pressure. Maybe they have underestimated the competition, and now they have had their wake up calls, things should be addressed in a professional manner. England fans want more, and now the players and the coach have to deliver as there will be no more chances for them. The life of an England manager is not an easy one, and now there are worries that Capello may quit his role if England do not make it to the last sixteen of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. But Capello has been honest in his assessment of his team, saying that he doesn’t understand why the players are unable to change tempo and get themselves motivated. It is hard to see Capello as a quitter, and regardless of what happens against Slovenia, it will be in England’s best interest to hold onto him. The performances are not completely his failings. It is basically the same group of players which have let England down so poorly before at tournament, like in Germany 2006, where they also looked uninspired.

Will Capello use Steven Gerrard in an attacking midfield role? That is the one area in which Capello has been criticised most, not using Gerrard to his full potential. Will he play Rooney as a lone striker, a role in which he relishes? This would pile responsibility on the Manchester United striker to grab games by the scruff of the neck, and could be the way to get him to respond. Will Capello then use the creativity of Joe Cole from the left? Something has to give, another turgid 4-4-2 display from England may not suffice. The passion has to be stepped up. The pride has to be stepped up. The drive, determination and the pace at which they play needs to be stepped up. Remember at Italia ‘90, England were in the same position in their group, having drawn their opening two matches. Coach Bobby Robson then made some changes for their final group match, beating Egypt to qualify. England reach the World Cup semi finals that year. So all hope is not lost for England and Capello. Can all of them rise to the occasion?

England World Cup 2010 Stats
Played: W0, D2, L0
GF/GA: 1/1
Cards: Y4, R0
Most Shots: Frank Lampard, 8
Top Scorer: Steven Gerrard, 1
Shots/On Goal: 33/14
Fouls Committed: 25
Total Passes: 1093
Pass Completion: 73%

Slovenia

If it is to some surprise that they have a healthy amount of points on the board, then it should not be. They were never going to be pushovers in the group, and were a good bet to steal second place behind England. They actually now have the chance to go one better than that, and win the group with a win over Fabio Capello’s side. While that would mean the unthinkable for England, for Slovenia it would be an immense success story. The European minnows have a good crop of players, and, as shown in the first half of their match against the USA, they were able to string together some quick passing and counter attack at pace. Pace is the one thing which England have lacked, and will have to be careful of the threat Slovenia pose in that department. Slovenia will also have two bustling, battling tough forwards in Milivoje Novakovic and Zlatan Ljubijankic, for Terry and Upson to try and contend with, and Slovenia, who beat Russia and Slovakia along the way in qualifying for the World Cup, will fancy their chances. They will have seen England struggle for momentum, and while the Slovenians fell apart in the second half of the match against the USA, they battled hard and still looked a threat on the break. Slovenia actually have a solid defence, which was stood up very well in their qualification campaign. England will have to show a lot more conviction and invention to break them down.

Slovenia top the group going into the final round of matches, and a draw would be sufficient for them to progress through. That makes England’s task even harder, as the Slovenians know that they can sit back and rely on the control that Birsa and Koren give them. A draw may suffice for England, but that would leave their fate in the hands of Algeria, who they would need to beat the USA for Capello’s men to progress in that situation. Even in this situation with Slovenia holding the slight advantage, there is belief in World Cup betting that England, who have the superior quality, will pull through. For Slovenia to stop that happening, they will need to play to their strengths. They work hard as a team, and can stroke the ball around when not under pressure. It is the pressure and tempo which England need, as they will have seen Slovenia crack under the high tempo game the USA played in the second half. All to play for, but have England left it too late?

Slovenia World Cup 2010 Stats
Played: W1, D1, L0
GF/GA: 3/2
Cards: Y6, R0
Most Shots: Valter Birsa, Robert Koren, 4
Top Scorer: Three players, 1
Shots/On Goal: 14/8
Fouls Committed: 25
Total Passes: 944
Pass Completion: 71%

Asian Handicap Betting Tip: England have to score, and you have to back them to do it. With the pressure on and the need to respond, you should see England as more of an attacking force, especially if Capello is going to be brave and shake things up. Experience in these types of situation is vital, and that’s where England could be much stronger.
England -1.25 for 6/5 at Paddy Power
 

Current England V Slovenia Odds:

There naturally has been significant fall out after England’s failure to beat the USA in their FIFA 2010 World Cup opener. Has the magic of Capello and his relationship with the English media, and the English game itself started to fade already? Or is everyone again just naturally hitting the panic button after watching England stumble through yet another unimpressive World Cup outing? It was, after all, nothing but a fluke goal that found parity for the USA, but is that the easy answer when England should have done a lot better in closing out and wrapping the game up in the first place? For the first time in his England tenure, it has to be said that there have been some big gambles made by Capello, who you would usually associate with playing it tactically safe. The inclusion of Ledley King was a huge gamble right from the off, given the problems which he has with his knees. Was it even the right decision to take him to South Africa? Why pick him ahead of fitter, more mobile options, such as Matthew Upson, who has filled in competently, if not spectacularly before at the back?

Now England are left with the pairing of John Terry and Jamie Carragher, who was probably lucky to still be on the pitch after his lack of pace was exposed. England can probably get away with the pairing over the next couple of matches, but if they are to run into Brazil and Spain as expected, then that half of yard of pace that the England back line is missing, will certainly hurt them. England sealed 58% of possession against the USA, whose midfield went missing in the second half, and England had their chances to sneak another goal, but the match should not have been that close. The USA goal should never have happened, and with a little more flair and composure, England should have been out of sight. So while we await Rooney to do what is expected of him, the main worry is over the defence. Is there better cause to throw the less inexperienced Michael Dawson into the mix against Algeria, who are the weakest side in the group, and keep Carragher as a back up? If Capello is still worried about Gareth Barry, then Carragher could do that job as holding midfielder, and then move captain Steven Gerrard further forward to play off Wayne Rooney, which leads us to another question.

Was it right to pick Heskey? Yes, he has some nice flicks ons, but the glaring miss when bearing down on goal with only the keeper to beat, was even more of a bitter pill to swallow that Rob Green’s gaff. If that had been Rooney, it would have been game over. If that had been Defoe, it would have been game over. If that had been Peter Crouch, you would have fancied your chances of seeing the Robot dance goal celebration at the end of it. With Wayne Rooney not having scored a competitive England goal since last September, England need someone who can ease pressure and put the ball in the back of the net. Will Capello stick with the big man, or shake things up for the Algeria match. While he is limited only by the players he has with him, he still does have some good options. Crouch would be one, if he is going to stick to the 4-4-2, or Gerrard playing behind Rooney with the defensive midfielder in place would bring a lot more balance to the side, and let Rooney do the role he loves best, playing as lone striker. That really would get the best out of him.

It is a must win game for England, but realistically, Wayne Rooney and Jermaine Defoe could play as the centre half pairing and England should still keep a clean sheet against the North Africans. As mentioned, Capello has options, but will he bend, as he prefers his 4-4-2 over everything else? What if Barry is fit, then will he move Gerrard back out onto the left where he is wasted? Gerrard was the most impressive England player on the pitch, but the attacking Frank Lampard faded into a non-entity, simply because he didn’t have his usual freedom of knowing the holding and steadfast Barry was behind him. There is a way to accommodate Barry, Gerrard and Lampard if Capello is brave enough, but that leaves the left midfield spot open, which leads us to yet another question. Why James Milner when he had been ill? Why Shaun Wright-Phillips as a replacement when the impressive Joe Cole was sat on the bench? The final products of Wright-Phillips and Aaron Lennon left a lot to be desired.

What now for England? Do they keep faith with Robert Green? Do they go for “experience” with David James, or throw rookie Joe Hart into the fire? It’s hard to see the latter happening, and for England’s sake, the best option will be to let Green play through it, because the law of averages stats that he should redeem himself. So it is on to Algeria on Friday, with a lot of questions still being asked of the England coach. This is most pressure he has been under since taking over the job, and now we should see the master tactician that he is. There really is no need to panic for England fans, as there is room for improvement, and we all know England can play better under Capello. We have seen it, and we just hope that it happens again very soon.

To Start in Goal Against Algeria
Robert Green: 11/10 at Coral
David James: 7/4 at Paddy Power
Joe Hart: 8/1 at Paddy Power

Match Odds
England to win: 1/4 at SkyBet
Draw: 11/2 at Bet365
Algeria to win: 12/1 at BetFred

England To Win World Cup: 17/2 at Bwin
 

England v Japan International Friendly betting. Betting on England at the World Cup may feel the full repercussions of Gareth Barry’s injury on Sunday. Having been given a little more time to prove his fitness, the potential loss of Barry could come to a head in England’s final International Friendly against Japan on the weekend. Even though England won their Wembley farewell match against a lively Mexico side, Fabio Capello cannot be too happy with what he saw. Nor can the hopeful England fans who will be backing their side heavily in World Cup odds. While there were none of Chelsea’s influential players in the line-up, Capello’s back up players did not really do themselves any great favours in a lack-lustre performance, in which they were outplayed for large parts of the game. James Milner was thrust into the middle with Frank Lampard absent, and failed to inject the quality that the Chelsea man delivers. Meanwhile the defensive midfield role was given to Manchester United’s Michael Carrick, who had a very forgettable and ineffective afternoon, and may have even played himself out of a starting place.

While the unfamiliar England back four also struggled for pace and positioning, the knowledge that Rio Ferdinand, John Terry and Ashley Cole will be back, will ease some concerns there. But does Fabio Capello know what is best for England in midfield without Gareth Barry? How much will Barry’s absence effect the World Cup odds surrounding England? Lionel Messi may have stated that he fears England. World Cup rivals will take note of the price of England in the World Cup odds, which are around 7/1. Are there signs that England are drifting in the odds? It is clear that there is no direct back-up for Barry, who didn’t have the greatest of seasons at club level himself. But he worked well in the England midfield, supporting Frank Lampard, so he suddenly became very crucial to the set up. Tom Huddlestone was also given a run out, but looked uninterested instead of trying to impress for Barry’s place. Will Capello have to give more serious thought to changing formation? Ledley King and Jamie Carragher are options for holding midfielders, but they do not jump off the page in being ideal solutions for a World Cup campaign.

Now England will face another test against a lively side, as they meet Japan in Graz, Austria. Although it is late in the day, will Capello field the side upon which he has settled on fielding for England’s opener against the USA on June 12th, or will he use this one last opportunity to experiment in case Barry does not come through? One positive that Capello will probably have taken from the Mexico friendly, was the performance of Steven Gerrard playing just behind Wayne Rooney in a supporting role. There is a clear difference between the involvement and therefore influence on a game that Gerrard can have in that role, compared to him being stuck out on the left, or even pushed back into a defensive midfield role. Gerrard surely represents a bigger threat in the team doing that role, and it would mean that favoured partner for Wayne Rooney, Emile Heskey, gets pushed out. But Heskey allows Rooney to play in his most dangerous role, as proven in the impressive qualification campaign. There are decisions to be made.

So what will Capello lean towards, not only for the England v Japan fixture, but for their World Cup Fixtures to follow? Peter Crouch bundled in another goal in his impressive England record, but can he do what Heskey does for Rooney? Crouch offers variety and is therefore a dynamic substitute. But what of Steven Gerrard if Capello uses two strikers? Is it back to an ineffective position for him? These are questions and quandaries that the England boss does not have much longer to figure out. Just 90 minutes of football stand between England and their opening match in Rustenburg against the USA on June 12th. Plan A may still be in the pipeline, it all depends on the fitness of Gareth Barry. But what really is Plan B? Whatever the game plan against the Mexicans in the first half, certainly wasn’t much of one, but would it have all been different if it had been England’s preferred starting eleven? Who knows? One thing Japan will test England on, is pace at the back and competitiveness. Mexico kept the ball very well against England, but you would expect England to dominate possession, if Capello puts his World Cup eleven out.

Japan finished second in the Asian qualification zone behind Australia. In a recent send-off match, before heading to Austria to meet England, Japan were overturned 2-0 by the in form Korea Republic. Japan head to the World Cup to take on Cameroon, Denmark and Holland, and won’t be cheered by the performance against Korea Republic. The midfield really is the spark of the Japan team, but it if gets over run, or simply under performs, then the back bone of the team has gone, and they may struggle. Their energy and creativity through the middle though, will be a good test against England’s more stoic approach, and it will give Capello something different to think about, and see how his players react. This is the last outing England will get before the coach has to trim his squad down to the final 23. With the midfield being the major problem, will Capello take one last long look at alternatives? England do not need to win against Japan. They simply need to show confidence that they can execute a Plan B.

International Friendly
England to win: 2/7 at SkyBet
Draw: 9/2 at Bet365
Japan to win: 11/1 at Ladbrokes
 

World Cup Betting tips may be pushed along, after casting an eye of the spat of international friendlies. Monday night sees England’s turn to fine tune their World Cup preparations. England have left their training camp in Austria, in order to head back home to Wembley, to take on World Cup bound Mexico. This will be an interesting night in London, as Fabio Capello is ready to experiment with both personnel and formation. England’s representatives from Chelsea’s successful FA Cup winning side have not made the trip to Wembley, and so England will be without starters John Terry, Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole. Along with them, Joe Cole, and Portsmouth goalkeeper David James remain in Austria at the training camp. The rest of the England squad head back to their camp in Austria after the England v Mexico international friendly. England have one more warm up match, which takes place in Graz. May 30th sees the fixture of England v Japan, the final run out the England squad will get before Capello trims his numbers down to the required 23 that he will take to South Africa with him.

Because of injuries, notably to Manchester City’s Gareth Barry, Capello is keen to look at alternative formations, something which he has not done during his England tenure. Capello banked on the solid 4-4-2 as England qualified for the World Cup comfortably at the top of their group, and which has helped put them near the front of the running in World Cup Odds. England fans will get a chance to see players who are knocking on the door of the 23-man squad, including debutants Adam Johnson and Michael Dawson. Capello has named midfielder Johnson as one of the most promising England players, as his trickery and speed down the flanks could make him a lethal weapon. Although he lacks experience, he, like defender Dawson, have enjoyed successful seasons and may get their chance to shine on the international stage over the next couple of matches.

England’s World Cup Fixtures start with their Group C match against the USA, who will have some familiarity with England’s Monday evening opponents, Mexico. The Mexicans finished behind the USA in the CONCAF qualification, having lost one and won one match against the Americans. Mexico recently beat Chile in a friendly, and they have been one of the busiest teams in World Cup preparations, although scouting reports are citing them as lacking the midfielders required to go very far in the World Cup. Mexico are in Group A along with France, South Africa and Uruguay. England are in Group C, and are favourites to win it, against the USA, Slovenia and Algeria. Betting on England at the World Cup may be influenced by the international friendly. Why? England would probably be even stronger in World Cup betting if they had the proven strength in depth. Maybe this is the perfect chance for Capello to put those doubts to rest as he experiments against Mexico.

Match Odds
England to win: ½ at Ladbrokes
Draw: 10/3 at BetFred
Mexico: 7/1 at Coral

Manager: Fabio Capello
Captain: John Terry
FIFA Ranking: 8
World Cup appearances: 12
World Cup Winner: 1966 

England Article: Squad

England Team Profile

England, sometimes referred to as ‘Three Lions‘, are a nation of which big things are always expected of them. Their loyal followers back home in what is a football mad country, always raise the expectation levels whenever a major tournament passes by their doorstep, and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa will be no different.

The English are well renowned for their big fan base and the news is there will be over 100,000 English supporters in South Africa cheering their team on to what they hope will be World Cup glory, and they head to South Africa in high spirits after the English sailed through qualification. However, the ease at which England bypassed what seemed a pretty competitive Group at the time, will only add to the demand of the English public back home in a nation which expects a Golden delivery.

It used to be Spain who held the mantle for being the biggest underachievers in World football, but then the Spanish claimed the 2008 European Championship and the tag fell onto England’s shoulders, as the English haven’t lifted a major International trophy since 1966 when they won the World Cup on home soil. It’s been an absolute age without anything to celebrate, and what hurts the English supporters the most is England have rarely even looked like going close to winning either a World Cup or a European Championship. That should hopefully change in South Africa but England have a knack of disappointing.

Manager

It’s fair to say that Capello‘s appointment at the England helm wasn’t exactly met with open arms by every England fan, although everyone knew changes were needed after their failure to even qualify for the 2008 European Championships. Fabio Capello, a manager with a seemingly flawless and impeccable managerial CV, was brought in to restore some English pride that was previously lost through their failings to reach the last major tournament, and Capello’s honesty about England’s chances of reaching South Africa was like a breathe of fresh air, as Capello claimed England would definitely make South Africa’s show-piece. The Italian was to be right as England stormed through qualification, becoming one of the first few teams in the European sector to book their plane tickets to South Africa, to the relief of a football hungry nation.

Fabio Capello has been a revelation for England, installing some Italian discipline into the England camp which was certainly missing during Steve McClaren’s and Sven Goran Eriksson’s reigns as England coach. The players now respect the coach and feel privilege to be a part of the England set up once again, something that was also missing from the England camp before Capello’s appointment. The players know no-one is safe from Capello’s sharpened axe, and that everyone’s place is up for grabs should they not perform. Capello’s disciplined manner and approach has greatly improved how the England team operates and they are arguably entering into a World Cup in the best form of any of the recent England teams, so the expectation levels back home are rightly high, and it’s all down to one man – Fabio Capello.

With England having gone nearly a decade without a World Cup, Fabio Capello could etch his name into English folklore should he mastermind a successful campaign in South Africa. With the English fans, though, he’ll simply be known as a ‘Legend’ forever.

England Key Players

John Terry

It’s been a turbulent year for the former England skipper, who only this year relinquished his hold of the captain’s armband thanks to his infidelity issues, a subject we will try to avoid for now. Some were hoping it would make John Terry stronger, Terry against the world they hoped, but it did have a big affect on the Chelsea defender, and for all the wrong reasons. Thereafter, however, Terry’s performances for Chelsea declined and he was no longer seen as the rock at the heart of the Chelsea defence.

Nevertheless, there’s an immensely talented defender within John Terry waiting for it’s rebirth. At his best he can take the form of the world’s best centre back, commanding his defence in his authoritative manner, reading the play with precision and never afraid to get stuck in with a bold but fair tackle. He’s been a little off form before the World Cup finals, but England fans will be hoping John Terry quickly bounces back to his reliable self in time for a successful World Cup challenge.

Steven Gerrard

The Liverpool skipper didn’t have the best of seasons for his club as they endured one of their worst campaign for some time, while Gerrard has had his fair share of England critics down the years, so Gerrard, who will be making his third apperance in the finals of a World Cup, will have something to prove in South Africa. His commitment in an England shirt has been brought into question on more than one occasion, as the Liverpool born midfielder seemingly doesn’t play in the same forceful and constructive manner for his country like he does for his club, Liverpool.

Steven Gerrard is arguably the very best at what he does and his game is about several aspects, all of which he does to a very high standard. The accuracy of his passing is second to none; switching the ball from flank to flank isn’t a problem for the Merseyside star, tracking back and helping out in defence he does to a more than satisfactory level, while the standard at which he creates chances for everyone else, and the regularity of them, are both outstanding and admirable. However, the one crucial factor you get with Gerrard that you don’t with most Midfielders is this unique ability to defy adversity time and time again. Granted he’s only really produced something wonderful and spectacular for Liverpool and not for England, but the simple fact he’s saved Liverpool from the pits of despair on half-a-dozen occasions in his illustrious career is a huge positive for every England fan as the Three Lions could be in a position where exit from the competition looks imminent, but when you have a player in your team which you know can pop up with the goods when everyone else’s luck is out, it’s priceless and that’s the best word to desribe Steven Gerrard, regardless of whether or not he’s having a bad game or a bad tournament, Gerrard’s winning mentality is priceless and he can win any game of football at any given time.

With Steven Gerrard in your team, you can never be out of a game until the final whistle rings. If Gerrard has a big tournament this summer, then so do England!

Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney was pushing Lionel Messi, the kid some are saying is looking more and more likely to be the greatest ever, all the way for Europe’s biggest player accolade before injuries spurred his chances of personal glory with the FIFA Player of the Year award. Rooney isn’t all about winning awards though, although he does enter into the World Cup in the knowledge that he was rated the Premiership’s best player for the 2009-2010 season. No, Rooney is a team player and he will strive to ensure England enjoy a good run in South Africa.

Within a year Wayne Rooney has seemingly been transformed into the complete striker, almost the perfect player in many respects. Sir Alex Ferguson has added versatility to his game, boosted his temperament and and converted the former play-maker into a goalscoring machine. Rooney always had goals in him but he was never scoring them with the alarming regularity that he is now. He’s been playing in a more central role up front for his club and it’s paid dividends, with Rooney ending the campaign with 26 league goals, while England were reaping the benefits of Rooney’s new found lease of forward life as the Manchester United striker finished a successful qualifying campaign as England’s most prolific forward with 9 goals in 9 qualifiers; averaging a goal every game for his country.

Rooney’s fiery attitude has cost him and England in previous tournaments, but the Liverpool born star has matured significantly in recent seasons and is now in the shape and form of his life. South Africa could be a huge tournament for Wayne Rooney as he looks to show the rest of the world what everyone in England has been talking about.

Strengths

The support England will get from their travelling fans will be amazing throughout their time in South Africa, and so long as the Three Lions keep progressing, the support will grow and grow. There will be over 100,000 English fans in South Africa to watch their team take on some of the World’s greatest football teams aiming to get a glimpses at perhaps the first England side to win the prestigious tournament since 1966. The fans will be in full voice at their games, and in plentiful supply, so whoever comes up against England will need to quieten the crowd if they wish to thwart England’s bid for glory.

The strength is depth is also a massive plus. England have genuine world-class quality in every position, while their back up is also first class. However, it’s the strength of their starting line up which will leave many nations in awe. Their defence consists of two of the World’s best defenders in John Terry (Chelsea captain) and Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United vice-captain), while Ashley Cole is rated as one of the World’s best left-backs. The midfield looks very solid yet full of creative spark and guile, with Gareth Barry sat in that holding role while Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard dictate the play just in front of him. The latter two also have goals in them, Lampard especially as he takes England’s spot-kicks. Gerrard can strike a ball from just about anywhere, and if England need a piece of magic at some stage, don’t be surprised if Steven Gerrard steps up to the mark. Up front we of course have Wayne Rooney – One of the World’s best on current form. 

Weaknesses

England do lack an out-an-out striker and as a result, means the Three Lions aren’t as danger from an attacking point-of-view as one might wish for. That may sound a tad amusing considering England finished with one of the higher goal returns during qualifying from the European sector, but the English were dominant in their group and often strolled through their qualifiers against the lesser nations. Against those with stronger defences, England will need more fire-power up top to break them down and could be found wanting if Wayne Rooney, a man upon the nations hopes are resting, doesn’t perform to the high standard we’ve all come to expect, or if he isn’t found a suitable striking partner. Fabio Capello has tested several forward partners for Rooney, and it would seem Emile Heskey is set to lead the line alongside the feisty Scouser.

Also, more than ever before perhaps, we rely heavily upon the displays and performances of one man – Wayne Rooney. The Manchester United forward was in scintillating form for his club during the 2009-2010 season and finished as the club’s top goalscorer, but he’s let his country down in previous tournaments, while injuries have also played havoc with his International progress on the big stage. Without him, England aren’t as threatening or intimidating, and that’s a huge concern.

England Qualification for the World Cup

Sector: Europe

Group: 6

Position: 1st

Win-Draw-Lose: 9-0-1

Goals Scored: 34

Goals Conceded: 6

World Cup Potential: 5/5

Will 2010 be the year England’s dreams become a reality? The expectation levels are always high with the England supporters, and it’s to be expected as rarely do they take a weak squad into a major tournament. 2010 will be no different and it will in fact be one of the stronger squads England have ever had in South Africa, so a big tournament should beckon for the Three Lions.

There are expected to be somewhere around 150,000 English fans in South Africa by the time the finals kick-off, so every English game should be packed out with English supporters. The support will be tremendous, as it always is, but once again there is tonnes of pressure on the England squad to perform and to deliver the goods in the form of the FIFA World Cup,after so many years of heartache and empty promises. We all say it every World Cup but this could be the year when England end the wait with their first World Cup victory since 1966.

England World Cup Betting Odds

England to win the World Cup:         8/1 – William Hill

Before the World Cup the odds on England were 8/1 

Official England World Cup Squad

Goalkeepers

Joe Hart (Birmingham City)

David James (Portsmouth)

Robert Green (West Ham United)

Defenders

Jamie Carragher (Liverpool)

Ashley Cole (Chelsea)

Michael Dawson (Tottenham Hotspur)

Glen Johnson (Liverpool)

Ledley King (Tottenham Hotspur)

John Terry (Chelsea)

Matthew Upson (West Ham United)

Stephen Warnock (Aston Villa) 

Midfielders

Gareth Barry (Manchester City)

Michael Carrick (Manchester United)

Joe Cole (Chelsea)

Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

Aaron Lennon (Tottenham Hotspur)

James Milner (Aston Villa)

Shaun Wright-Phillips (Manchester City)

Strikers

Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

Peter Crouch (Tottenham Hotspur)

Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)

Emile Heskey (Aston Villa)

last update: 18 June 2010

World Cup 2010 England Fixtures – Group C

27/06 – 15.00 – Round of the last 16: England – Germany: 1-4

World Cup Group C - Table

World Cup Fixtures and Results

World Cup Group of England