wayne rooney

The one sight that England fans do not want to see ahead of the World Cup, is Wayne Rooney nursing any kind of injury. But that is exactly what has happened, with Rooney missing domestic and European matches for his club Manchester United, with an ankle injury. But the prolific goalscorer, who has just recently been crowned the Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year, is putting a positive spin on his injuries, by stating that the knocks he has picked up in a long season, could actually help England’s campaign at South Africa 2010. This is because he is getting some valuable rest time ahead of the tournament, so by the time England start their World Cup Fixtures on June 12th against the USA, he will be fully recharged.

One of England boss Fabio Capello’s main worries over his star striker, was that he was being overworked by Alex Ferguson, and the 24 year old could have been burned out ahead of the tournament. But these enforced rests will calm Capello a bit, and the timing of them could be ideal for Rooney and England. Things would have been a lot worse for Betting on England at the World Cup if Rooney had picked up these injuries closer to the start of the tournament. England is undoubtedly reliant upon the goalscoring feats of Rooney, who finished the qualification in Europe as the top scorer. His recent accolade given by the PFA is just rewards for an incredible season by the striker.

Rooney has missed the last few games for his club, which has hindered their hopes of retaining their Premier League crown in England. There have been mixed reports from the Manchester United camp, with some reports citing that Rooney may miss the rest of the domestic season, while some reports expect him back as soon as May 9th, in the club’s penultimate match of the campaign. But United are still in the hunt for the title, and England certainly could benefit from a prolonged Rooney rest. Rooney will be England’s most influential player at the World Cup, and a lot of their hopes are hinging on him carrying through his form to the tournament in South Africa. England are in Group C of the tournament, paired alongside the USA, Slovenia and Algeria.

World Cup betting odds has England as third favourites to lift the World Cup, but there is a lot of reliance upon their first team selection, with the squad not being as strong in depth as some of the other main contenders like Spain and Brazil.

One of the more popular markets during a World Cup has proven to be the ‘Top Goalscorer‘ market, which in it’s simplest form means; who, as in player, will finish the 32 team tournament with the highest amount of goals. The ‘Golden Shoe’ is the official name for the award given to the player with the most amount of goals at the end of the tournament, and it’s second best only to winning the World Cup itself.

Some great names over the years have won the award, the likes of Brazil’s Ronaldo, Portugal’s Eusebio, even our own Gary Linekar, whom will be presenting coverage of the finals live on the BBC during the summers event, has a Golden Shoe in his trophy cabinet, while the current owner of the Golden Shoe belongs to Miroslav Klose of Germany. However, Klose didn’t have strain too much to land the award as his tally of just 5 goals was the joint-second lowest goal tally to have claimed the overall prize in the World Cup’s 80 year history.

So who will claim 2010′s Golden Shoe? Well, we’ve not had much luck predicting some of the previous years winners, with Klose not even on our radar back in 2006, but with some big names representing their country’s over the summer, we’re fairly confident we’ll get closer this time around. Here’s our brief assessment of some of the frontrunners in the betting market to win the 2010 FIFA Golden Shoe.

David Villa

Country: Spain

Club: Valencia

International Apps: 55

International Goals: 37

Club Form: 24 Goals in 40 Appearances

Odds: 11/1 Bet365

Ah, David Villa. One the most wanted strikers on the planet, and up their with the very best with a stunning goal return for both club and country. A fully fit David Villa is a scary thought for any opponent and he’ll be keenly watched over the course of the World Cup by every defender, although very few manage to keep the 2008 European Championship’s top goalscorer at bay for the entire length of a 90 minute game. He’s quick, skilful and so damn clinical in front of goal. You give him even the slightest whiff at goal and he’ll punish you with aplomb – This guy is deadly in and around the box and chances are you’ll see why.

Despite lacking in height (5ft 9in), Villa has this predatory presence in the opposing box, with any half-chance or defensive mistakes immediately snapped up by the little Spaniard. He also has so much to his game. An unlimited inventory if you like. He can take on a defender, weave in between the tightest of defences, take free-kicks and penalties under pressure, score from 30 yards… score from 2 yards; the man is a menace and it’s no wonder the bookies are no taking no prisoners by quoting Villa as the early favourite for the Golden Shoe award, although his price looks extremely generous considering he’s one of many world class players in the Spain squad. A team which will create plenty of chances during the course of the tournament, so Villa will get his fair amount of opportunities to score in South Africa and bolster his already mean International tally.

Fernando Torres

Country: Spain

Club: Liverpool

International Apps: 71

International Goals: 23

Club Form: 18 Goals in 35 Appearances

Odds: 13/1 Expekt

Liverpool’s No.9 is one half of a deadly striking duo for Spain. The name ‘Torres’ is now a household name around Europe after properly announcing himself on the scene after two prolific seasons in a tough and often gruelling English Premier League. In two seasons in England with Liverpool, Torres has built up a stunning goalscoring CV of 54 goals in just 77 appearances for the Reds, although his exploits for Spain are a tad more confined. Even so, the sheer sight of Torres on the starting sheet scares the living daylights out of defenders and he’s one of just a few who are almost guaranteed a starting berth for Spain in South Africa, that is providing he’s fully fit.

For all Torres’ amazing attributes; his lightening like acceleration and pace, his quick feet and skills, his composure in the final and his ability to position himself in the goalscoring areas… amongst others traits, he does seem prone to knocks and scrapes. Since joining Liverpool in 2007, Torres has endured a handful of injuries, some of which have kept him sidelined for several weeks at a time, and he’s had to deal with a stop-start season in England this year which will have affected his preparations for the World Cup somewhat. However, Liverpool’s talismanic forward appears to be back to his goalscoring best and if he keeps up his goalscoring form until the end of the season, his confidence should be sky-high, and so, Torres will surely be thereabouts on the top goalscorers list in South Africa.

Wayne Rooney

Country: England

Club: Manchester United

International Apps: 58

International Goals: 25

Club Form: 32 Goals in 38 Appearances

Odds: 12/1 SportingBet

One of the most energetic and enthusiastic players around is Wayne Rooney, of which he’s now added ‘Goalscoring Machine’ to his forte after a sublime season for his club in the Barclay’s Premier League. The Liverpool born forward has been enjoying his best ever seen for Manchester United, already lending a helping in hand in landing the Carling Cup trophy for the Manchester based club by scoring their winner at Wembley. Rooney will be hoping more trophies are still to come, with the biggest of them all being the Jules Rimet trophy in South Africa, but Rooney hasn’t faired too well on the big stage for his country in past events; suffering a tournament ending injury in the 2004 European Championships before later seeing Red in the 2006 World Cup. On both occasions his country went out in the same encounter, so while many back home in England are pinning their hopes on the fiery, ginger faced Scouser, the omens aren’t heavily stacked in his favour.

What Wayne Rooney does have to offer though is some stunning form, both from his club and international duties. Rooney was pivotal during England’s World Cup qualifying campaign, finishing as their top goalscorer with 9 goals after 9 qualifiers. However, it’s his form at Manchester United which has catapulted him into Golden Boot contention after a blistering season in the Premiership. After 38 competitive games with man Utd, Rooney has netted on 32 occasions averaging nearly a goal every-other-game. He’s not just about goals though, far from it. Rooney’s model like work ethic is something for our kids back home in England to aspire to. We’ve yet to see a game yet where Rooney just hasn’t turned up and performed, especially for England. He’s rapidly becoming one of the most consistent players around and he’ll set the bar in South Africa for the rest of the England players to follow– Let’s hope the rest match his high standards.

Luis Fabiano

Country: Brazil

Club: Sevilla

International Apps: 36

International Goals: 25

Club Form: 11 Goals in 21 Appearances

Odds: 13/1 bWin

Surprise-Surprise, Brazil have a nifty goalscorer, although this one isn’t exactly your stereotypical showboating Brazilian striker like those preceded him. Don’t get me wrong, Fabiano does have plenty of skill and wit in his locker, but he’s not as bumptious as say a Ronaldo or a Romario, yet his record for his country is second to none and on course to be up their with the very best in Brazil. That is providing he gets enough games in the forthcoming few years as Fabiano was a late bloomer and has only recently come into the limelight at the age of 29

While Fabiano took a while to really make a name for himself, with one reason perhaps being the ultra competitive forward competition he’s had to face in previous years, the Sevilla forward has shown his worth for Brazil despite his country only recently demanding his regular services. His tally of 25 goals in 36 Internationals is just breathtaking, while his form during qualifying put him firmly in the hat for the summers Golden Boot award. That was until injury put his season on hold, with an ankle injury restricting his pitch time for Sevilla of late. Even so, he’s been averaging a goal every-other-game in Spain, and should he be fit and raring to go by the summer time, Fabiano will definitely pose a threat to those craving a Golden Boot – While this could be Fabiano’s last chance to claim the prize with age clearly not on his side any more.

Lionel Messi

Country: Argentina

Club: Barcelona

International Apps: 43

International Goals: 13

Club Form: 29 Goals in 31 Appearances

Odds: 16/1 Boylesports

Where do we even begin to describe the Golden Boot credentials of thee best player on the planet according to FIFA, and just about every honest footballing pundit. The lad is still just 22 years-of-age yet he’s already known worldwide for his footballing exploits. Messi not only has the potential to be the players of the tournament in South Africa but he could very well end up as the greatest ever player to embrace the beautiful game if he continues at this pace. The little Argentine has been in scintillating form for his club, Barcelona, in Spain, racking up a staggering 29 goals in just 31 appearances. He’s already on track to land the Golden Boot award in Spain, which would be some feat for a winger, but does he have the making of a Golden Shoe winner? Some would say perhaps not.

While there is so much to love about Messi; his silky touches, his mazy runs, the sublime pieces of skill and the downright audacious goals, the criticism with Messi, especially back home, has been that he doesn’t quite emulate his club form at International level, with some journalists back in Argentina claiming Messi only really produces his best for his club, Barcelona. His average goal return while on International duty is perhaps the evidence to back up these claims but we mustn’t forget that Messi is still very young, with his best years still ahead of him, and yet the pressure on the lad from fans and pundits back home must be enormous. He’s done extremely well not to over burn, yet he poured his heart and soul into a lacklustre Argentina qualifying campaign. It would have been a huge blow had Messi and Argentina not made the finals, but they are there and the FIFA World Player of the Year will set out to make a real impact in just his second World Cup finals appearance.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Country: Portugal

Club: Real Madrid

International Apps: 69

International Goals: 22

Club Form: 22 Goals in 24 Appearances

Odds: 20/1 bWin

Despite claiming the 2008 FIFA Player of the Year award, the bookies don’t fancy the cheeky Portuguese star with Cristiano Ronaldo looking rather tasty at 20/1 to finish this summers finals as the most prolific player on the planet. The charismatic forward will certainly be eager to land the Golden Shoe award as it’s about the only accolade the Portuguese superstar, and captain, hasn’t won in what has been a glistering career up till now. There isn’t an awful lot Ronaldo can’t brag about, especially after his £80Million pound move to Real Madrid last summer from Manchester United after two very impressive years in England, even ending the 2007/2008 season as England’s deadliest forward with a sublime return of 42 goals in all competitions. Ronaldo now lays claim to being the most expensive footballer, not only on the planet, but to have ever lived.

Why is Ronaldo such big odds? Well, to put it bluntly, he will be spearheading one of Portugal’s poorest national sides in it’s history in South Africa and they’ll do well just to make it past the group stages. In a group consisting of Brazil and the Ivory Coast, Ronaldo will need to show some of his magic in order to drive Portugal deep into the competition. However, Ronaldo is another big name who hasn’t quite lived up to expectations when playing for his country, yet the burden of success upon his shoulders will be huge this summer as he will head into South Africa as the Portugal captain – God knows why as I couldn’t respect a player who spends a large portion of his game diving and winging, although the other half is usually spent scoring goals, so that’s probably why.

The Portuguese are now a one man team and if they are to go through, we have no doubts that Ronaldo will be to blame – and blame is the correct word as the inevitable will happen somewhere down the line where the winking, take my shirt off whenever possible, Ronaldo breaks English hearts for the third time in a row.

We will try to add others as we go along… But here are few other names, including their respective odds, that could challenge some of the more obvious selections at more appealing odds.

Gonzalo Higuain

Country: Argentina

International Apps: 4

International Goals: 2

Odds: 25/1 PaddyPower

Didier Drogba

Country: Ivory Coast

International Apps: 68

International Goals: 43

Odds: 33/1 bWin

Nicolas Anelka

Country: France

International Apps: 64

International Goals: 14

Odds: 40/1 SkyBet

Alexandre Pato

Country: Brazil

International Apps: 8

International Goals: 1

Odds: 50/1 WilliamHill

Andrea Pierre Gignac

Country: France

International Apps: 10

International Goals: 4

Odds: 66/1 Boylesports

England V Egypt

Wednesday, 3^rd March – 20:00 GMT (ITV1)

International Friendly

Match Odds:

England – 1.40 Bet365

Draw – 5.00 SkyBet

Egypt – 10.00 SkyBet

As preparations for the forthcoming South African World Cup get under way, England fans, and Fabio Capello, will want to paint a better picture of whom will actually travel to South Africa as part of the 23 man strong England squad. Capello has been honest enough to say that most of the spots are done and dusted but you would have to imagine a good five of six tickets are still up for grabs and this rather boring internationals now take on even more significance as some surprise call ups could lead to some shock travellers this summer.

Midfield

Everyone should have a rough idea of what the England starting eleven should look like on Wednesday, the usual three occupying the midfield in Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry, although the latter has come under some stinging criticism this season after what has been a poor season in terms of solid performances from Barry’s high standards. Michael Carrick, whom hasn’t exactly been a firm favourite for selection under Capello’s regime, could be the ideal candidate to snatch his place should he finish the season strongly with Man Utd. However, that’s the only real predictable part about guessing who will start on Wednesday as while we all have rough ideas of who will feature from the off, with injuries taking affect and of-pitch dramas adding yet more selection dilemmas, Capello could have his hand forced to make wholesale changes.

Defence

The defence is the key area for us, with a controversial John Terry the only realy certainty to start in the heart of the England defence. The remaining three points are all up for grabs what with Rio Ferdinand and Glen Johnson both out injured and Ashley Cole suffering a broke leg I believe. Wayne Bridge has also ruled himself out of selection so the full-back roles are anybody’s. We would hazard a wild guess that Leighton Baines could be in line for his full England début down in left-back while an unconvincing Wes Brown will surely seize the right-back role. John Terry’s centre-back partner will probably be Matthew Upson, although it wouldn’t be surprising to see Joeleon Lescott back in the England fray but he’s been largely disappointing this season and hasn’t been back from injury for too long, so Upson would be the logical selection there.

We mustn’t forget that Capello did surprise us all by picking Stephen Warnock and Ryan Shawcross, although perhaps that’s not surprising at all considering England frailties at the back right now. Both could feature at some point in the game, what would be Shawcross’s first ever appearance in an England shirt and just Warnock’s second, but we wouldn’t count on either getting a starting berth.

Goalkeeper

In goal is another intriguing area of debate in that England’s goalkeeping spot is still up for grabs with no keeper during the course of the season really stamping their mark on that Number 1 shirt. In fact, out of half-a-dozen possible candidates we can’t think of one that’s actually been consistent enough throughout the course of the campaign. However, there is one name that springs to mind, although we don’t fancy his chances of being in the forefront of Capello’s thoughts – Joe Hart. The Birmingham shot-stopper, whom is on-loan from Man City, has been superb in goal for Birmingham this season, leaving the ‘Brummie’ faithful ‘ooing’ and ‘ahing’ with some stunning saves. However, Hart has featured just once for England and, despite enjoying arguably the best goalkeeping spell out of the main contenders (David James, Robert Green), probably won’t be rewarded with the nod on Wednesday, although we feel he’s the only man who deserves it, with Green having a ‘blunderous’ season thus far and David James hardly being one to excel in the big games for England – Not that we’re saying this is a massive game, but David James is hardly a model for consistency in the crunch games so why he’s even in the squad is something that baffles me – Merely my honest opinion.

Strikers

The huge boost for Capello is now his attacking options in that he has plenty of inform striking talent at his disposal, none more so than Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney who has been on fire in recent weeks, and for the entire season we must add. The former Scouser turned Red Devil scored his 28^th goal of the season in the Carling Cup final at the weekend, the winning goal we must add, and his goalscoring momentum seizes to amaze us. However, it’s who he will line up alongside which is the question, an interesting one at that as there are several strong claims. Jermain Defoe has been enjoying his campaign with Tottenham and has been scoring goals a plenty at the forefront of the Spurs attack, although his striking partner at Tottenham, Peter Crouch, has now fallen down the ranks after a failure to score enough goals so he doesn’t look prominent to start from the off. Emile Heskey is a personal favourite for Capello as it gives England that ugly long ball option, with the Villa frontman able to use his superior physical prowess to his advantage in holding the ball and sufficiently supplying the on-running midfielders of on-song Wayne Rooney. While Heskey up front has proved a worthy and successful ploy for the Italian gaffer, we would instead prefer to look at either Jermaine Defoe, someone with a bit of pace and spice, or Carlton Cole, whom has similar attributes to Heskey but is far more versatile, quicker with his feet and a more composed finisher.

Right-Midfield

There is of course still this on-growing debate over who will start on the right-hand side of the midfield quarter at the finals and it’s something ever we’re clueless about. A fit and on form Theo Walcott would get our vote as his pace would strike so much fear into our opponents, but injuries have halted his progress this season. David Beckham needs little explaining, although it is unlikely the former England captain will start and will probably be used as a second half substitute instead. Shaun Wright-Philip’s is chosen in the squad again but has failed to impress in a handful of chances given to him by Fabio Capello, so, the only remaining position filler appers to be Stewart Downing, who has been in scintillating form for Villa in both areas of the pitch, and by that we mean both on the left and down the right. This is particularly useful for Capello as it would enable him to put Steven Gerrard onto the right, onto his preferred foot, which would then give England more versatility and options when going forward.

I’m sure there will be plenty of you out there trying to second guess Fabio so we’ve given it ago ourselves. This is how we think the England team will look at the start of proceedings for Wednesday nights clash with Egypt.

GK: David James

RB: Wes Brown

CB: John Terry

CB: Matthew Upson

LB: Leighton Baines

CM: Gareth Barry

CM: Frank Lampard

LM: Stewart Downing

RM: Steven Gerrard

FW: Wayne Rooney

FW: Carlton Cole

Betting perspective: If you’re looking to have a punt on the game, which isn’t something you should take lightly when it comes to International Friendlies, then perhaps caution is the word of the day considering England aren’t all that attractive in the betting markets. For the bases of fun, what with us loving our goalscorer punts, perhaps some small wagers on the FGS (First Goal Scorer) or the ‘to Score Anytime’ markets could be more up your street. There are a number of individuals looking to cement a place in the starting eleven for South Africa and a goal would go some way in impressing the disciplinarian, Fabio Capello.

Wayne Rooney: FGS – 7/2 Bet365 Anytime – 10/11 Bet365

Jermaine Defoe: FGS – 9/2 Bet365 Anytime - 5/4 Bet365

Emile Heskey: FGS – 11/2 Bet365 Anytime - 7/4 Bet365

Carlton Cole: FGS – 11/2 Bet365 Anytime - 7/4 Bet365

Frank Lampard: FGS – 11/2 Bet365 Anytime - 7/4 Bet365

Steven Gerrard: FGS – 7/1 Bet365 Anytime - 9/4 Bet365

Stewart Downing: FGS – 16/1 Bet365 Anytime - 4/1 Bet365

John Terry: FGS – 18/1 Bet365 Anytime - 11/2 Bet365

Brazil v England

November 14, 2009
Kick Off 5 pm
Khalifa International Stadium, Qatar

There is a lot of debate as to which striker England boss Fabio Capello will go with, when the national side head off to Qatar next weekend. Fans of World football will be treated to an England v Brazil friendly match in the Khalifa International Stadium, and both teams will be using the game to test themselves against potential threats to their own World Cup 2010 ambitions.

New father Wayne Rooney will no doubt be selected for the match by Fabio Capello, but the question is, who to partner him? For too long England have struggled to find a world class partnership up front, but now Capello is probably one of the most fortunate England managers for some time with regards to almost being spoilt for choice up front.

Throughout the qualifying campaign, Emile Heskey was the preferred starter, his side and power being used to create space for partner Rooney. A provider and a nuisance to defenders he may be, but one thing Heskey is not, is a prolific scorer, and it may get hard for the Italian coach to justify giving Heskey a place when there are better options in terms of being clinical in front of goal.

Tottenham’s Jermain Defoe exploded during the qualifiers, making the most of the chances which he was given coming off the bench. He has only just returned to the Tottenham side for their recent 2-0 win over Sunderland, and during his absence he was sorely missed, with Spurs looking lack lustre. He has speed with which to trouble defences and looks in some of the sharpest form of his career.

Ex Tottenham player Darren Bent must seriously be knocking on the door of getting a good run out for England. The Sunderland striker is the top English goal scorer in the Premier League this season, after his much publicised transfer to the Black Cats from Tottenham. With eight goals under his belt, his is looking like a goal scoring machine, and again seems to be more settled than ever at his new club, enjoying the benefits of being trusted with the responsibility of being the main source of goals.

Aston Villa’s Gabriel Agbonlahor is a youngster who has impressed over the past couple of seasons. Having played most of his debut season as a lone striker and looking uncannily accomplished at the role, with a little extra support alongside him now, he is rapidly growing in stature and composure. He scored again in Villa’s 5-1 thumping of Bolton on Saturday, and has a nice tally of 6 goals in thirteen games. He his definitely considered as a future star.

Then there is West Ham’s Carlton Cole. The ex-Chelsea striker is a little awkward, raw, but is an awesome wild card to throw on in matches. He has height, strength and shows good control on the deck as well. Playing for a struggling side such as West Ham probably is not exploiting his full talents, but still he is on the same amount of goals as Jermain Defoe.

Peter Crouch will probably still be floating around the fringes, as his height and nuisance-factor when thrown on a substitute can be a useful weapon to have in your Arsenal. Probably far down the pecking order in terms of getting a starting place, but then you never know, as he has experience, and Emile Heskey keeps getting starts. Not getting starting time at his club Spurs won’t be helping him though.

Falling down the list from his past glory days is Michael Owen. His name probably brings around bouts of headaches for Capello. He will be wondering if his move to Manchester United will really bring out the old Michael Owen who shone for England for so long. There will never be the same amount of sharpness there, and in front of goal he has shown on a few occasions this season, that his eye for goal is not what it is. Still, he is someone with a proven track record, and could be a nice boost to have sitting on the bench, a little experience like David Beckham.

The problems for Capello are, who is most likely to handle the pressure of playing against some of the top defenders in the World, and who is most likely to complement Wayne Rooney. The Premier League is a tough place, and anyone plying their trade there, will have to come against the defences of teams like Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and especially Chelsea. It is not quite a golden age of England strikers, but it is probably the best bunch that has been available for selection for a long time.

So who will Capello go for? This being a friendly, it could start off with Heskey or Defoe, and then the likes of Cole and Agbonlahor having run outs in the second half.  Having a bench full of back up strikers is nice, but there needs to be a proven forward who can forge a long and productive partnership with the irrepressible Rooney.

Top Five English Strikers Record This Season in the Premier League:
Bent (Sunderland) 8
Rooney (Man Utd) 7
Cole (West Ham) 6
Defoe (Tottenham) 6
Agbonlahor (Aston Villa) 5

The squad is announced on the evening of Sunday, November 8th

World Cup Outright Odds:
Brazil: 5/1 at Paddy Power
England: 6/1 at William Hill

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