wayne rooney

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

Argentina have now scored nine goals during this World Cup, so it’s little surprise to see one of their forwards topping the Golden Shoe table. While plenty of money came for Lionel Messi to top score during this tournament following an awesome season for Barcelona, it’s his Real Madrid compatriot who is instead leading the way.

Gonzalo Higuain has a big debt of gratitude to Messi for the fact that he now has four goals to his name and the 22-year-old is now 7/4 (Sporting Bet) to finish top of the pile. His hat-trick against South Korea during the group stages shot the striker ahead of the competition and another goal against Mexico on Sunday night means that he stays in front of the chasing pack.

However, La Albiceleste have a tough quarter final match against Germany on Saturday, where it’s perfectly possible that their participation in the World Cup will end. Perhaps the smart money should still be on David Villa, the Spain striker who has been scoring for fun in his last couple of matches.

The former Valencia man is on his way to Barcelona ahead of the new season and he’s been impressing his new employers in the colours of the national team. Although the 28-year-old drew a blank against Switzerland, a brace against Honduras followed by a goal against Chile means that he’s one of several players on three goals at the moment. Coral offer 7/2 that he adds the 2010 World Cup Golden Shoe to the Golden Boot he won at Euro 2008.

With Spain playing Portugal and then a potentially winnable quarter final against Paraguay or Japan, we could see Villa filling his boots. The other player who could be racking up the goals in the next two games is Brazil’s Luis Fabiano, whose brace against the Ivory Coast keeps the Sevilla striker in the hunt for the top honour.

Brazil face Chile on Monday night and, while they are likely to meet the Dutch in the last eight, Holland do not appear to have the strongest defence and Fabiano can be backed at 8/1 (Coral) to take the plaudits. Considering that the bookmakers are offering ¼ odds for the first three places, many might be contemplating an each-way wager on the Selecao player.

However, there are now six players on three goals and only one of them (Landon Donovan) are no longer involved in the tournament. Robert Vittek (50/1 Sporting Bet) is the least fancied of the quintet, despite striking twice against Italy in the group stages, and that’s probably because his team are expected to go out against the Netherlands on Monday. Indeed, Holland’s Robin Van Persie is much shorter in the betting (22/1 Sky Bet), despite only having one goal to his name thus far.

The other two players on three goals at the moment are Asamoah Gyan and Luis Suarez. The Ghana forward scored a spectacular goal in extra-time to beat the US on Saturday and he’s 25/1 (Ladbrokes) to finish top of the pile, while Suarez scored a stunning winner against South Korea and is more fancied at 14/1 (Sky Bet).

The bookmakers are expecting Sunday’s clash in Bloemfontein to be the biggest betting match of all time, with nothing getting the juices flowing more than a Germany v England contest during the World Cup. It’s a brilliant time to be opening a betting account or two, considering some of the excellent new customer offers that are available right now, while firms also have a number of great match offers available.

Bet365 continue to offer up to £200 in free bets to new customers through their 100% Match Deposit Bonus promotion. Simply make your first deposit and this popular bookie will match this with a free balance which can be used on any sporting market, including the hundreds that are available for the 2010 World Cup.

Bet365 also have a ‘Penalty Payback’ promotion for the World Cup, which means that if you back a team on the outright market and they lose on penalties, you will get your stake refunded. Since it emerged that England were playing Germany, there’s been lots of talk about extra-time and penalties, so it might be worthwhile backing the Three Lions at 10/1 to go all the way. Joachim Low’s team are 11/1 with bet365.

Finally, bet365 have their 0-0 cashback offer for England v Germany and every other football match in the World Cup and beyond. That means that all losing First / Last Goalscorer, Anytime Scorer, Correct Score and HT / FT bets are refunded if the game ends goalless. We’re expecting a tight contest!

Over at Paddy Power, you can always be sure of a good promotion for the big World Cup matches and England v Germany is no exception. They have a bore war promotion running which is similar to bet365 in that they will refund all losing 1st/last goalscorer, correct score and scorecast singles on this match if it ends 0-0. There are also £30 in free bets available to new customers when you register for the first time.

Ladbrokes are determined to make a splash for new and existing customers that visit their website this weekend, with anyone opening an account getting a £25 free bet just for depositing £5! This 500% deposit bonus is available during the World Cup and has proved immensely popular, with many people winning with their free bet last Wednesday by backing England. Perhaps you can do the same on Sunday, with the world’s biggest bookmaker offering odds of 5/1 that the match goes to a penalty shoot-out.

Sky Bet like to offer customers lots of extra value for the big England matches and some of their odds for the game at the Free State Stadium are very attractive. You can get odds of 12/1 that England win in extra time, with £10 staked landing you a nice profit of £120. Apparently Wayne Rooney has been looking sharp in training and is available at 20/1 to get his team off to a blinder by scoring in the first ten minutes, while the Manchester United forward is 14/1 with the same firm to score in both halves.

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:

England look to trim World Cup betting odds with convincing win

Of all the things which should be on his mind at the moment, the infamous World Cup ball seems to really be getting to England boss Fabio Capello. The Jubulani ball by Adidas was criticised before the World Cup started, by the likes of Gianluigi Buffon and Iker Casillas. England’s veteran keeper David James has also raised questions about it, along with former England manager Sven Goran-Eriksson. The ball, apparently, behaves irregularly in the air, giving goalkeepers problems. Yes, you know where this is heading. England’s keeper Rob Green, who will forever be remembered for the howler that he conceded against the USA, has said that Clint Dempsey’s shot did move unexpectedly. Green has been admirably brave in facing up to his error, but the big question now, is whether or not that mistake by Green has cost him his starting place for England’s second Group C fixture, which takes place on Friday against Algeria. That is just one of the changes which coach Fabio Capello is supposedly entertaining for the match, after England failed to capitalise and put the USA to the sword as they should have done. While England dominated possession, their lack of pace at the back, and lack of creativity in getting forward, was once again highlighted, as their indifferent pre tournament form carried through to their opening match.

Two other changes which Capello is contemplating, is bringing Gareth Barry back into the side, which should be a no-brainer, now that he is fit again. The other poser for Capello is what to do up front in helping out Wayne Rooney? Will Emile Heskey, who missed the most clear cut chance of the game, be cut? If so, who will be brought in? Will Capello go for the more dynamic option of putting Jermain Defoe in, who has proven that he can score goals, but has never partnered Rooney very well up front for England. There is still the option, now that Barry has recovered from his injured ankle, to move Steven Gerrard in behind lone striker Rooney, a position where he would be a major threat to opposition. But Capello likes his 4-4-2 and that means Gerrard will probably be back out on the left, which takes him out of the game a little. His natural tendency is to drift inside, and that leaves the flank exposed a little bit. That is the most likely scenario though, as Capello will pretty much be back to the midfield that carried England so well through European qualification. There is no doubt that England have missed Barry and can only improve after their stuttering first outing.

Hopefully, Barry will restore some balance to England, and what ever Capello does up front, hopefully it eases some pressure from Wayne Rooney, who has now only netted once in eight international matches for his country. England need Rooney to fire. Germany’s Franz Beckenbauer weighed into the England debate, stating that they have been going backwards in terms of playing ability, resorting to the old kick and rush style that used to be the feature of English football. It’s fair comment to say, that England’s play against the USA, lacked a lot of finesse. England’s lack of pace at the back has also been pinpointed, as Jamie Carragher is expected to start alongside Chelsea’s John Terry. England were exposed by the USA at the back on a couple of occasions, simply because the pace was not there down the middle. Capello’s other options in that position would be Matthew Upson or Michael Dawson, but again, Capello does not like to change things up too much, and if you see a line up of Green, Johnson, Carragher, Terry, Cole, Lennon, Lampard, Barry, Gerrard, Heskey and Rooney on Friday, then do not be too surprised. Why? Because the 4-4-2 is Capello’s A plan, and he seems to be determined to make it work. There is no need for England to panic against the Desert Foxes. They just need to put in a solid passing and moving game, and they will break Algeria down

England World Cup Betting. There are no two ways about this, England need to win, and should. They look a little short on confidence, though, and how much will that affect the comfort level of victory? Let’s look at the Anytime Goal scorer market first. Wayne Rooney is 5/6 at Bet365, Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe are both 7/4 at Bet365, Frank Lampard is 2/1 at Paddy Power, with captain Steven Gerrard 12/5 at Paddy Power. All decent prices there. England to win by one goal is 3/1 at Ladbrokes. England to win by 2 goals is 3/1 at Coral. Fabio Capello’s men have drifted out in World Cup betting outright odds and are now best priced at 17/2 at Bwin. England have a big chance to be positive and start building confidence and momentum.
England Asian Handicap Betting Tip: -1.25 for 4/6 at Paddy Power

Desert Foxes feeling the heat

Algeria may be without goalkeeper Chaouchi for the England match on Friday. The first choice keeper sat out training in midweek after spraining his, and it was his mistake which gave away a goal to Slovenia. A goal that cost Algeria the match. Algeria who have not impressive since their managed to qualify for South Africa 2010, looked way off the pace against European minnows Slovenia in their opening match. It was a battling performance by both teams in the opening match, in which Algeria had Abdelkadaer Ghezzal sent off. Ill discipline also plagued Algeria at the Africa Cup of Nations earlier in the year, when they finished their semi final match against Egypt with eight men. They have shown very little in terms of enterprise in getting forward, despite words about them being less cautious in their approach to the England game. While anything can happen, and Algeria may well flood the midfield as they did against Algeria, they should find a top European side much harder work.

Algeria World Cup betting: Tough call to see Algeria contributing much to the match, as they haven’t put forth much optimism for their supporters. Would simply play them on something like the following to potentially make money on them.
Algeria Asian Handicap Betting Tip: +1.75 for 4/5 at Stan James

England v Algeria Betting Odds
England to win: 1/4 at Bet365
Draw: 5/1 at SkyBet
Algeria to win: 14/1 at Victor Chandler

Outright: Holland @ 10/1 WilliamHill

 In my opinion, when a discussion arises about which of the favourites you fancy, there’s always a bracket of about eight teams and we’ve opted for a team slap-bang in the middle of this eight team fracas. The Dutch over the years have been heavily criticised for their lacklustre defending and lack of big defensive names. At South Africa 2010, Holland will go about trying to win their first World Cup title – with a large proportion of fans claiming the Netherlands are the best footballing nation never to have won the FIFA World Cup – with a similarly suspect back four. However, the Dutch defence does have more combative qualities and individuals than in previous tournaments with John Heitinga, Joris Mathijsen and Andree Ooijer, while the calm and composed figure of Giovani Van Bronckhorst will marshal the back and ensure the entire Holland defence remains focused throughout 90 minutes and then some. The tournament may well come too soon for right-back Van Der Wiel, who is a serious talent and a player with the potential to catch several prying eyes should he get the chance. What we’re saying though is that Holland now look sturdy and reliable enough at the back to be taking on,as we’re sure all of you are well aware of the array for talent they possess in the final third of the pitch, which will rival the likes of Spain and Brazil in my honest opinion.

Arjen Robben will miss at least one of their games, but they have ready-made replacements should such a dilemma arise, which it has, with Rafael Van Der Vaart, Ryan Babel, Elia and Afellay, the latter especially talented,. There’s an explosive quality about the Dutch which has endeared them to many a punter in the ante-post rings, with Holland’s price of around 16/1 a month ago now a distant memory, with Holland now a general 9/1 shot. Coach Van Marwijk has players which can really make things happen and every single one of their forward thinking players are fearless when it comes to taking possession and running at defenders. In Van Der Vaart, Robben, Afellay and Van Persie, Holland have players which can beat a defender, while all three are lethal at shooting from distance. With Dirk Kuyt they have a predator inside the penalty area and his menacing runs inside the box are so hard to pick up, and in the centre of the park Wesley Sneijder will pull all the strings. There’s so much talent on display that we honestly feel the Dutch can outscore any team on their day, and in Elia and Babel they have two subs with lightening quick pace and the pair will scare the living daylights out of defenders when they make their way onto the pitch after an exhausting 70 minutes have passed by.

We got on them at 14/1 a few weeks ago but can honestly say their price of 10/1 with WilliamHill still screams value. There isn’t a team formidable enough in a forward sense that will scare Holland’s defence enough to concede several cheap goals, while their midfielders/forwards are explosive, creative and will score plenty of goals over the course of the tournament. What’s more, their group, Group E, is arguably the easiest of the lot on paper while the likelihood is they’ll face either Paraguay or Slovakia in the Round of 16 stage – Quarter-Finals should be a doddle and by then, with some impressive and ruthless displays in the bag, Holland’s price will have plummeted further.

Dark Horse: France @ 20/1 Bet365

I’m not too sure what price is needed to necessarily qualify as a ‘Dark Horse’ but you can’t say no fairer than 20/1 on the country which finished runners-up in Germany four years ago. France have seemingly lost their way in recent years, embarrassing when exiting the 2008 EURO’s at just the group stage and then putting in some bizarre displays during their pre-World Cup preparation period – The 1-0 defeat to China the worst of the lot. But France remain a big footballing nation, packed with talented individuals. Granted the team as a whole has recently lost it’s way, while rumours of dressing room disharmony appear to be true, but the French are a proper tournament team in that they only get stronger as the tournament goes on. There group will test their South Africa mettle but should they come through Group A unscathed, it will naturally instil a great deal of confidence and self-belief into the French team.

However, their could be a trend forming with France, as after their 1998 World Cup triumph, Les Bleus followed it up four years later with a bottom of the group finish. They were runners-up to Italy in 2006, so will lightening strike twice? There is evidence to suggest that it could; poor showing at EURO 2008, disappointing friendly results and a disjointed team at present. The group stage is pivotal for me. If they bypass a tricky Group A containing Mexico, Uruguay and hosts South Africa, France will be a big player in the knock-outs, as per usual.

Golden Boot: Wayne Rooney @ 11/1 Boylesports

We know full well that Spain’s duo of Villa and Torres will be there or thereabouts, as should Brazil’s Luis Fabiano because of the amount of games all three should play according to their outright prices, but England’s Wayne Rooney was the only player to briefly contest the ‘best player in Europe’ tag last season before injury blighted his glistening finish. The former Everton hitman racked up 26 goals in 32 Premier League appearances, as well as 5 in 7 during United’s Champions League campaign. He’s arguably the most passionate and determined forward heading to South Africa, although that has often got him into trouble in the past. Confident on the ball, ambitious, can score with his head, from distance, and after enjoying his first proper full season in the striker role with his club, Rooney has tweaked his radar and now knows exactly where the goal is. Against teams such as the United States, Algeria and Slovenia, Rooney could bag a good 4 or 5 before hopefully building on his tally during the knock-outs.

Dark Horse: Dirk Kuyt @ 125/1 bWin

Although the Liverpool winger may not be a prime candidate in the eyes of most punters, there’s no doubting the striking talent of Kuyt and his commitment to the cause. Inside the opposing penalty area he’s a menace, a predator just waiting to pounce on any half-chance that may come his way. Although Kuyt has scored just 15 goals in 62 appearances for the Holland national side, he’s a big time player, one of those individuals that will pop up with a scrappy goal, a two-yard stab home if and when you need it. He’s arguably one of the smartest players we know when it comes to manufacturing scoring opportunities – Always the first to charge in on the keeper when free-kicks and long distance efforts are pummelled in – and more times than not Kuyt find himself with the ball at his feet and an empty net in front of him. Moreover, he’s part of a very talented Dutch squad expected to make some serious inroads in the summer, so Dirk Kuyt should get his fair share of games to score in and at the odds looks a decent each-way punt.

Golden Ball (Best Tournament Performer): Yoann Gourcuff @ 125/1 888Sport

One of the stars of tomorrow for France, although their lack of depth in midfield has resulted in an early call up for Bordeaux’s highly talented play-maker. For 23 years-old, Gourcuff has a wise head on his shoulders and is extremely confident carrying the burden of creating the majority of France’s chances. His set-piece deliveries are scintillating, has been known to strike a few beauties or two from distance and is very composed when under pressure. Gourcuff can pick out those impossible passes and will be the driving force behind France’s forward play. If the French are to emulate their run to the final four years ago, we have little doubt it will be because of an inspiring tournament from a player with a bright future ahead of him.

Here are a selection of some the Goalscorer Match Bets that Stan James are offering on South Africa 2010. These are great alternative bets to enjoy, instead of just putting all of your money down on the outright winner of the Golden Boot. Stan James’s Goalscorer Match Bets, pits some of the world’s greatest football stars against each other in a head to head betting contest. Suddenly it is not about who will score the most goals at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, but who will score more than their match bet rival? There are some interesting World Cup odds to sort through on this one, and ones which could bring some decent returns. The race for the World Cup top goal scorer will be a fascinating one, with a plethora of stars all vying for the position of being World Number One. There are a lot of players who have a lot to prove to other rivals. But these Stan James bets are not about the overall tally in beating the world, it’s just about beating the Goalscorer Match Bet opponent.

Lionel Messi (Argentina) v Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
First up we have two of the most exciting forward players on the planet. Argentina’s Lionel Messi goes up against Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo in this first bet. Remember, you need to pick who you think will score the most goals out of the two of them, or whether you think they will hit the same amount of goals. Both are in teams from which a lot is expected, but also which have their flaws and weaknesses. Messi has been accused of not bringing his A game to the national side, and Ronaldo has not quite been his proficient, free flowing self in his first season at Real Madrid. This is a battle between two of the genuine world stars, but who will have the most goals in them?
Messi Evens
Tie 3/1
Ronaldo 7/4

Arjen Robben (Holland) v Franck Ribery (France)
Next up we have the Bayern Munich pairing of Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery. After picking up an injury and becoming a doubt over participation at South Africa 2010, Robben seems more and likely to strap on his boots and play. Whether Holland will rest him at the start of the tournament to make sure, it is not exactly clear, but all the same Robben has been in startling form this season for his club and country, and the ex-Chelsea man is expected to be amongst the goals. But will French star Ribery upstage him? Ribery has the world at his feet, but will he be able to deliver in a France side that seems to be stumbling blindly around looking for the right attacking formation? Les Blues are lacking goals despite all their talent, but if they fire, then so can Ribery.
Robben 6/4    
Tie 2/1    
Ribery 13/8    

Jermaine Defoe (England) v Peter Crouch (England)
Who will make more of an impact as England’s secondary scoring source? Well, it could actually be their third main source after Rooney and Lampard, but in the battle of the England strikers, will Jermaine Defoe or Peter Crouch prevail at South Africa 2010. Defoe showed his worth through England;s successful qualification campaign, looking sharp and full of speed. But Peter Crouch is the current active England player with the best goalscoring record for his nation. There are still some doubts as to who will get the nod to start alongside Rooney at the World Cup. Will it be Crouch or Heskey? Defoe is more likely than not to be used only in a substitute capacity, so does that tip the favour in Crouch’s direction? What if Heskey starts? Who will be the first choice substitute for him? All sorts of connotations in this one, but take your pick whether Defoe will score more than Crouch, or the other way around at the World Cup.
Defoe 7/4    
Tie 2/1    
Crouch 11/8    

David Villa (Spain) v Fernando Torres (Spain)
Next the two deadly Spaniards go head to head in a World Cup goal scoring battle. This pretty much could be the race for the Golden Shoe right here, but there is a chance to pick up some extra World Cup Odds, just by pitting the two against each other. Villa, the first choice striker with the better international goalscoring record, is being tipped all over the place to top the goal scoring chart, but can his international team mate get the better of him? Will the two Spanish striking stars end up with parity? The two form a deadly partnership, and Torres brings out the best in Villa. But can the Liverpool star shine again as he did at the European Championships, where he netted the crucial winner that gave Spain the cup?
Villa 10/11    
Tie 3/1    
Torres 15/8

Wayne Rooney (England) v Fernando Torres (Spain)
How about a Manchester United v Liverpool striker battle? England’s Wayne Rooney goes up against Anfield hero Fernando Torres in this Stan James Goalscorer Match Bet. Rooney is Fabio Capello’s big hope at the tournament, and England’s World Cup dreams pretty much rest upon his shoulders. That means he should be amongst the goals to continue his prolific goalscoring year for club and country. But Fernando Torres is clearly no slouch, and there is not too much to chose between the two of them when it comes to picking out a top goal scorer. Torres has all the finesse and quality of finish, while Rooney is a more of a brute force direct handful for defences. Which style will win out at South Africa 2010?
Rooney 5/4    
Tie 3/1    
Torres 11/8

Those are just a selection of the great Goalscorer Match Bets that Stan James are putting forth. There are other major players and pairings to look over, such as David Villa v Wayne Rooney, Lionel Messi v Wayne Rooney and David Villa v Lionel Messi. This is a great market to explore with some though provoking selections to be decided up. The list at Stan James goes on in the fairly unique method of betting on the goaslcoring heroics at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Milito v Eto’o, Higuain v Ronaldo, Aguero v Forlan, Gerrard v Lampard, Messi v Higuain, Tevez v Robinho and Torres v Gerrard can all be bet upon. Who will be the higher scorer out of the pairing? Six goals is usually enough to win the Golden Boot, and not all of these stars will hit that many. But who will hit the tally necessary to beat their rival in these pairings? Online Bookmaker Stan James are offering up to £25 in free bets on new accounts. Just sign up to Stan James and when you first bet on that new account is settled, the online bookmaker will credit your account with a matched bonus to the value of your original stake (up to £25).
 

Full Name: Wayne Mark Rooney
Date of Birth: 24th October, 1985
Position: Striker

Current Club: Manchester United (England)
2009/2010 Apps/Goals: 43-33

International Appearances: 58
International Goals: 25

International Accolades: Finished World Cup qualifying as England’s top goalscorer with 9 goals.

Sometimes fiery and temperamental, often out-of-this-world and brilliant… There is only one Wayne Rooney in the world of football and don’t England fans just know it. In South Africa, Wayne Rooney will carry the hopes of an entire nation upon his brisk shoulders, and it’s a country which demands success.

It’s been the worst kept secret that Wayne Rooney is England’s biggest threat, now their biggest asset and danger man. All the talk ahead of the finals is about Rooney, and whether the Merseyside born star can be the driving force behind the country’s first World Cup victory since a famous 1966 year. After scoring a staggering 33 goals in 43 competitive games for Manchester United this season alone, the indications are certainly promising. Even more so considering Rooney spent a significant part of the latter stage of the season on the sidelines, one of the reasons why Wayne Rooney didn’t end the season with a bag full of winners medals.

On his day, and in peak form and fitness, there is no-one better to watch. There isn’t anything the lad cannot do, a position he cannot play in or an area of the pitch where he can’t score. He’s unique in every way in that when the chips are stacked, you can rely on Rooney to deliver something special and save the day. In full flight he’s a menace, charging at defenders like a rhino before slamming the ball home. That’s the huge improvement we’ve all seen from Rooney this season, his finishing. He’s always been a supreme talent, a player blessed with the ability to make great things happen on a pitch. But in front of goal Wayne Rooney really has sharpened up; reading the play far better than ever before while his positioning off the ball is now second to none, ready and waiting in those scoring positions to do just that, score.

Wayne Rooney has it all; a powerhouse figure, a quick turn of foot, wit, guile, fantastic vision and now sniper like finishing. He’s almost the perfect player. In fact, he probably is. His work rate and determination throughout any game is admirable, while he has this winning mentality, this hatred for losing that naturally makes him a born winner. Our only concern with the 24 year-old is the amount of pressure the English press are piling on him. It goes without saying that without Rooney in the England fold, the Three Lions would lack their roar, but it’s the fact pundits alike are claiming England are doomed without an out-of-this-world tournament from Rooney that just might scupper both Rooney’s and England’s chances of World Cup success. Granted he’s matured greatly in such a short space of time, while his head is certainly a lot wiser, but pressure gets to everyone in one way or another, we just hope Rooney has the support off the scenes to handle it, which we’re sure he does.

Preparation far from ideal:

Not only did Wayne Rooney end the season limping off the pitch at Old Trafford, struggling with a number of niggling injuries ranging from his groin to his ankle, Rooney also missed out on the English Premier League title by a point, as well as losing out to Didier Drogba for the English Golden Boot by three goals. In the end it was a season or near misses and lots of frustration, but those disappointments could be the incentives Wayne Rooney needs to put in a colossal display in South Africa, as a FIFA World Cup win would more than make up for his Manchester United disappointments.

Wayne Rooney; Top Goalscorer in South Africa 2010 - 12/1 Totesport