News

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Beckham to be England’s Mascot

The sad news of David Beckhams World Cup dream being ended by a achilles injury whilst playing for AC Milan has overtaken the John Terry vs Wayne Bridge saga and even the stories over where and when Beckham would play for England at the World Cup.

However, Beckhams England career has had highs and lows particularly at World Cups; from his goal vs Columbia, to his sending of against Argentina in 1998, his broken metartarsal and recovery including the winning goal against Argentina in 2002 and now with his imposed exclusion from the squad due to injury Beckham has possibly found a way to still be inspirational to the England team off of the pitch. According to a few British newspapers Beckham could still go along to the World Cup with the England squad as it’s most famous and influential fan, whilst also fulfilling his role as England’s ambassador for the 2018 World Cup with Capello apparently thinking his involvement with the team would help before and after games.

If Beckham does go in a mascot type role, it will be more likely he will be seen in some trend setting outfits rather than a oversized lion costume.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Tevez to retire after World Cup?

Argentina and Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez has stated that he could possibly retire after the 2010 World Cup in South Africa stating he is ‘saturated’ by football.

Tevez’ comments came during an interview in 2009 with Argentine newspaper Ole before Argentina played Spain, a game they lost 2-1. Tevez has largely featured as a substitute for Argentina under Maradona and he admits that his performances have not been up to standard to displace Gonzalo Higuain, however at 25 his intention to retire not just from international football but football all together has come as a surprise.

Tevez has won domestic cups and league titles in his early career where he has played for boyhood club Boca Juniors, Brazilian big hitters Corinthians who he captained to domestic league glory and has also won 2 Premier League titles and a Champions League title with Manchester Utd. At West Ham Utd Tevez experienced a relegation fight; quite a lot for such a young player. It could be that by winning so many titles, playing for 3 big clubs and achieving so much in a short period of time under such global exposure that Tevez may feel he has done all he can should Argentina win the World Cup.

Tevez has said “It crosses my mind to hang up my boots if we win the World Cup, it’s complicated, there’s my family, the desire to return to Boca Juniors. I’m keen to get a bit of calm. I’ve won a lot. football has saturated me. “I’m a little tired of so much football, so much football…I want to enjoy my family a bit,”

Furthermore a player like Tevez who is used to playing, used to success may be frustrated at his lack of game time and match winning moments for his country as he has experienced in club football. Moments which have been constant in his career in South America, to West Ham, Manchester United and currently at Manchester City. It could be the thought that if he should not play regularly at the World Cup he may have missed his chance to represent his country whilst at the peak of his career with the next World Cup in 2014 with Tevez aged 29. Tevez made his feelings on his current international career clear stating “nobody likes to be a substitute, iIt doesn’t worry me to sit on the bench and I will support my team-mates. I’m not going to sit with my arms folded and watch the World Cup pass by. No, I want to play, I want to enjoy it, I want to be there and I’m going to try 10 times harder than before. I’m determined to turn this situation around. At the World Cup they are going to see the best Carlitos Tevez.”

Whatever the reasons for this potential premature exit from football, Manchester City and Argentina fans shouldn’t worry too much as he is currently contracted to the club until 2014 and Argentina still have to win the World Cup, which they haven’t managed to do in the last 5 attempts since 1986, with countries such as Brazil, Spain, Italy, Holland, France, Germany and England all capable of taking Argentina out of the equation.

Monday, January 25, 2010

What is the cost of World Cup glory?

Research carried out by Virgin Money has estimated that the cost for an England fan to see England play in South Africa could be as much as £6000.

The calculations and resulting figure were based on flights, 3 star accomodation, match ticket prices, food, drink and transport within South Africa. Grant Bather of Virgin Money who carried out the research estimates that the cost of watchig all 3 of Englands group matches will be £2,445, rising to £3,108 should England qualify for the last 16.

If England succeed in making it to the Quarter Final stage the cost of seeing all those matches could rise by another £800 with the total cost of seeing England play their first game vs the USA all the way to the final (should they make it) estimated at £6,399.

This could mean that if all 50,000 travelling fans expected make it to South Africa they could produce a total expenditure of £319 million.

Mr Bather was quoted as saying “Fans would probably say that £6,399 to see John Terry lift the World Cup would be worth paying. But with up to 50,000 England fans flying out the costs will certainly mount up. A World Cup win will last for ever but you don’t want the debts to last for ever as well.”

However, the good news is that only those fans from South Africa itself or France will pay less to see their teams with Australian fans hoping to experience World Cup glory having to pay the most at an estimated £10,000. Strewth!

How to solve a problem like Maradona?

Argentinean, world class player and World Cup winner Diego Maradona has never been far away from controversy since the infamous ‘Hand of God’ moment during the 1986 World Cup Finals against England in Mexico.

Ever since that historic moment Maradona’ professional and personal life has been rife with negative flashpoints and when he was chosen to coach the current Argentina team the footballing world held it’s breath for another moment from Maradona.

When he played for Napoli he was heralded for single handedly winning the Serie A for the Italian Club but then fell foul of the authorities due to tax issues and the revelation of his drug problem. At the 1994 World Cup, Maradona’ drug use was raised as a concern by the world media and after scoring an important goal for Argentina he was sent home due to drug use. In the years that followed Maradona became increasingly reclusive as the media continued to observe his life, health prolems due to alcohol and drug addictions, brief managerial stints and the intense scrutiny resulted in Maradona reportedly threatening to shoot a group of press that had gathered at the gates of his home. Maradona was still regarded a hero by his countrymen, but even so a few eyebrows were raised when he was given the Argentina Head Coach role both across the World and in his native country. Even the most resilient die hard supporters could be concerned whether Maradona actually had the tactical knowledge, temperament and physical health to lead a team abundant in talent to World Cup glory.

It didn’t take long for the national team to give Maradona’s critics a chance to sharpen their hypothetical pens and draw first blood. They begun their campaign well with wins over Chile, Venezuela & Bolivia, but these were soon followed by a loss to Columbia, draw with Ecuador at home, draws with Brazil, Paraguay and Peru. Argentina’s chances of qualifying looked to be getting slimmer; after beating Uruguay, losing to Chile and a impressive 4-0 victory over Venezuela, Maradona’s men went on to lose 4 of their final 7 games including a 6-1 drubbing by Bolivia and a 1-3 loss at home against historic rivals Brazil. Argentina eventually qualified after a late goal meant Argentina beat Uruguay 0-1 and progressed but it was far from impressive. 

With Argentina qualifying, some managers may have taken the opportunity to accept that the actions of their team had done more than any words in proving their critics wrong, but this is Diego Maradona and the drama wasn’t going to end at the final whistle in Estadio Centenario. At the end of the game Maradona took the opportunity to tell his critics precisely what he thought with a series of insulting gestures aimed towards the on looking media from the pitch, which he verbally continued later at the press conference saying:

“To those who did not believe in us — and, ladies, forgive me — they can suck it, and keep on sucking it,” he said. “I am black or white, I’ll never be grey in my life. You lot take it up the a*** — if the ladies will pardon the expression. This is for all Argentineans, except for the journalists. I would like to thank the team for giving me the privilege to lead Argentina to the World Cup. Thank you to the Argentinean people who had faith.” 

The comments were unexpected but not unbelievable from a man like Maradona. His actions once again managed to take the glory from the Argentina team as he did in 1986 and created a scenario that could only have one outcome. The comments, resulting FIFA investigation and disciplinary action gave every critic an excuse to publish endless stories regarding Maradona and his behaviour, rather than the success of the team.

Argentina may not be too concerned with Maradona’s behaviour should they win in South Africa and they potentially have the players, particularly offensively to beat any team. Many managers have empathised the importance of tranquillity and calm during a tournament and with the potential for drama and negativity off the pitch that could follow Maradona, there is a question over whether the players can leave that atmosphere behind and perform as they had to in the final stages of qualifying for the tournament.

Another problem for the Argentina team is not just the potential of what Maradona’ behaviour could have on the team but also the pressure of having Maradona as the Head Coach. The Argentina fans will hope that Maradona’ latin spirit and passion will be an inspiration rather than a distraction and that he can replicate what previous great players have done for their nations as managers in the past, such as Beckenbauer in 1990, Marcello Lippi in 2006 & Carlos Alberto Parreira in 1994. However, should any signs of struggle come during the group stage for Argentina; the fans along with the media will be quick to inflate the pressure on Maradona and his team and that could result in the delicate balloon that is the national team to pop.

Therefore, if the problems of Maradona are his relationship with the press, frantic behaviour and the intrinsic expectations transferred onto the team, then how do you solve a problem like Maradonna?

Let’s begin with his relationship with the fans and the press. Maradona’ undoubtedly loved by his home nation’s population, with some seeing his recent public outburst as typical of the latin continent and those that perhaps were offended still respect him moreover as the footballer than the man. Maradona has apologised to the press and recently visited South Africa, where he helped promote the World Cup and spoke positively of South Africa as hosts as he continues to work on improving his public image. Should Maradona continue on this route of keeping his public statements brief and positive, he may avoid an early trial by the world’s media and the Argentina hopeful in South Africa and at home. If he succeeds in this stage of Argentina’s World Cup campaign before a ball is kicked he may also succeed in giving his team the focused calm environment they will need in order to perform and it is their performances which will be key to the second stage of solving the problem of Maradona.

Anyone who knows football, whether as a player, a coach or a fan knows that it is a results business. Players, managers and teams have been forgiven for behaviour on and off the pitch from alcoholism, affairs, arrests and outbursts at fans, management and press as long as the teams success continues. Thus, if the players can produce on the pitch, whatever has gone before will be forgotten and questions over whether Maradonna was the right man for the job will stop.  Where Argentina finish will be important and the expectations will be for them to reach the semis at least, with the hope of winning of course, but how they play could be equally as important. Playing with style and dominant forward play will be important to quash the memories of the displays of their qualification campaign, in the same respect as the 1982 Brazil team who have been hailed as one of the best ever even though they failed to win the Jules Rimet trophy. Key to their chances will be players such as the in form Carlos Tevez, Lionel Messi, Maradona’ soon to be son-in-law Sergio Aguero, Walter Samuel, Pablo Aimar, Diego Milito, Javier Mascherano, Juan Riquelme and the list goes on and on. Should the players unite as they did at the end of qualification they could potentially beat any team with players capable of ravaging defences at one end and a midfield and defenders able to be dominant and tight when organised.

Overall, in answer of ‘how to solve a problem like Maradona?’ the answer lies with the man himself. Should he remain a positive beacon of Argentinean football in South Africa as he has in recent weeks and embraces the latin phrase “te ducat cupiditas” (let passion be your guide) combined with selecting the right mix of players including choosing a regular No.9 and setting the team up to perform with the style, belief and skill he was synonymous with as a player, then Argentina could become surprise finalists and possible winners. 

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Can the Golden Boys bring football home

David Baddiel, Frank Skinner and Ian Broudie of The Lightening Seeds famously penned the lyrics “It’s coming home, It’s coming home, It’s coming, football’s coming home” for the 1996 Euro’s and re-released it for the 1998 World Cup and it is without doubt the chant of English fans. But although coming close in 1996, much like the 1990 World Cup Engalnd still haven’t managed to bring football i.e. a tournament trophy, home.

The ‘golden generation’ of players England presently has including Steven Gerrard, Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, John Terry, Ashley Cole, Wayne Rooney and former Captain and Golden Balls David Beckham have so far failed to deliver in previous tournaments from Euro 2000, to win a title and the 2010 World Cup is perhaps the last chance for this group of playes to reach thier potential and get their hands on some real gold in the shape of the Jules Rimet trophy.

In order to do this England are going to have to continue their wonderful qualfying campaign where they won 9 out of their 10 games, scoring a European high of 34 goals. The aim of finishing the group stage top of Group C in South Africa looks achievable, with England missing any forseeable obstacles and being matched up against an improved USA side, Algeria and Slovenia. However, England have often come through the initial group stage, it has been upon reaching the knock out stage where England have come unstuck; losing out to Portugal, Brazil and Argentina in the last 3 World Cups in two Quarter-Finals and the last 16 and therfore could the problem be once Englands opposition are of a higher pedigree.

To be fair England only lost on penalties against Argentina and Portugal and to a contentiously lucky goal scored by Ronaldiniho against Brazil. England has a strong sqaud going into this years World Cup and the confidence gained from the qualifying campaign could prove important not to metion that Capello perhaps presents a tactically superior and certainly firmer leader than his predecessors Eriksson and McClaren. There wont be any of the WAG nonsense and media distraction England allowed themselves to be involved in at the last World Cup with Capello known for his focus on team unity, closure and organisation, even banning mobile phones and enforcing that the team eat together. There is a cohesion and structure to the England team that again could prove important should England make it through and face some of the tougher European and South American teams. However, in friendlies against the Dutch and Spanish, England seemed outclassed in movement and passing. Although Capello has the tactical nouse and experience of how to win and England have shown against Portugal and Argentina in the past that they can be resilient enough defensively to hold out and even come close to winning, there are question marks over whether England can create and most importantly take enough scoring chances to win games where a single goal could win the game.

Whether England manage to take that step beyond and manage to achieve their goal of emulating 1966 will really depend on Capello’s selection choices and like in 1966 who plays and who reaches their maximum potential when it matters such as the likes of Bobby Moore, the Charlton Brothers, Martin Peters, Gordan Banks, Geoff Hurst and Alan Ball etc did in 1966. With all the potential in the squad, many players since 1998 with the exception of perhaps Beckham, Lampard, Campbell, Mills in 2002 and Owen in 1998 have under performed. Consequently, Capello must get the best out of every player for every game and pick a team and formation to both deal with the goal threat of Argentina, France, Germany who England may face in the last 16 and Quarter Final stage and also manage to create enough chances to progress wthout the need to enter a penalty shoot-out; the achillies heel of England teams. The performance of the England players is one issue, but a hurdle before a English player touches the turf is who will make the squad. Rio Ferdinand is a long term injury concern and has been short of form, England are without a regular in form No.1, the No.9 shirt is unconfirmed and up for grabs and so are the wide positions and potentially the right back. With so many selection uncertainties and few games before the tournament begins it is still unclear whether the fight for places will have a positive impact or become a disruptive element. Another key condition will be the discipline not only tactically but in general with players such as Rooney having to monitor themselves so as not to get on the wrong side of the international selection of officials, unfamiliar with the English game and whom will be less forgiving on tackles usually allowed to go in Premiership games. With red cards influencing games largely in previous tournaments, for example Rooneys red card against Portugal and Zinedine Zidane’s in the 2006 final versus Italy, with the 11 men running out eventual winners over the 10 men of France.

Overall, for England to reach that golden dream many factors will have to fall in place for Capello and his lions; from selections, to performances, to discipline and the run of the green in the ‘big’ games. Suddenly winning the World Cup seems a lot more complcated than putting a ball in a net.

Who will survive the ‘Group Of Death’

Every tournament creates a group consisting of a few high profile teams often referred to as ‘The Group Of Death’ and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa is no different.

Group G will pit 5 times winners Brazil against European big hitters Portugal, Ivory Coast and the lesser threat of North Korea. Brazil will be favourites to win the group with the history of winning the tournament and a team that would appear the best in all departments with World Class Kaka, the misely goalkeeper Julio Cesar, as well as Barcelona’ Dani Alves, Gilberto Silva, Robinho and striker Luis Fabiano. Portugal narrowly made it through the qualification stage eventually winning a play-off against Bosnia-Herzegovina to make the finals, however they can still boast a team that includes Deco, Carvalho, Veleso and of course the world’s most expensive player Cristiano Ronaldo who demonstrated during his time at Manchester United and currently at Real Madrid that he can turn a game by himself. North Korea shouldn’t be too much of a problem for their group rivals with the other teams looking to gain an easy 3 points when they face North Korea.

The same however cannot be said of the Ivory Coast, with the World Cup coinciding with development of a pretty impressive team for ‘The Elephants’ who will be hoping to stamp on their competition. The Ivory Coast perhaps have the best chance of victory in the World Cup of all the African Nations with a team that boasts not only physically strong and quick players but players who currently play at the highest level. These include Chelsea’s Didier Drogba, arguably the best striker in the Premier League, with a strength, aerial ability, pace and strike rate to scare any defence and he has shown at his time at Chelsea that he is capable of occupying two centre backs which would open space for his team mates. His Chelsea team mate Soloman Kalou could be one player to benefit from Drogba’s prescence as he has good pace and is also of capable of scoring with his head or either foot. Barcelona’s Yaya Toure is a big strong player who will no doubt look to ‘boss’ the midfield as he does for his club and will be key in helping break up the oppositons attacks and dealing with players such as Kaka and Ronaldo as well as distributing the ball when attacking and he will also be a handful at set-pieces. Another ‘Elephant’ who will be important in the games against Brazil and Portugal will be Yaya’ older brother the equally athlectic and experienced centre back Kolo Toure. Currently plying his trade at Manchester City Kolo rose through the Arsenal Team and was one of ‘The Invincibles’ with his atheleticism, pace and ball control making him an important player in either box and he will be key to the Ivory Coast if they are not to allow the likes of Portugal and Brazil dominate their fixtures. The Ivory Coast also have a talented player in Emmanuel Eboue in their squad and although his temperament will be tested there is no doubt that this Arsenal graduate is a talented footballer. Capable of playing as right back or right or central midfield Eboue has good pace, tackling and can distribute the ball well in central or wide areas and with players such as Drogba and Kalou to aim at the Ivory Coast have a real source of goals and goals win games. The Ivory Coast also have solid players in Sevilla and former Spurs player Didier Zokora in midfield along with Marseille’s Bakary Kone and Stuttgart’s Arthur Boka next to Kolo at the back.

So, we have had a brief look at the teams likely to contend for the 2 spots for the next round from this group, but how might the matches go and what could be the end result. Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly stated that he sees Portugals first game against the Ivory Coast as the most improtant for Portugals progression. He has been quoted on Real Madrids official website as saying “We have a complicated group. It will be difficult but I am happy to be facing team-mates and friends. Football is always complicated. We have to play well to win and we are motivated to be facing great teams. Brazil are the strongest team, but the Ivory Coast are also a tough rival. It is a hard group. We will have to be in our best form. Winning the first match [against the Ivory Coast] is very important”. Brazil Head Coach Dunga said after the draw was made “Against Portugal, with their style of play and their players it will be like Brazil against Brazil. The big question mark is with North Korea. I will have to take a close look at them. Ivory Coast - they are very strong side.”

To see the possible outcomes we used the latest technology of a PS3 and Fifa 2010 to see how the games could pan out (we assumed that North Korea will be beaten in all 3 games)

Ivory Coast vs Portugal = Ivory Coast Win
Brazil vs Ivory Coast = Brazil Win
Portugal vs Brazil = Brazil Win

So there you have it it will be a 1,2 finish for Brazil and the Ivory Coast and if our demos prove to be right the winker Ronaldo and his team could be going out at the 1st stage.

Friday, January 22, 2010

South Africans to be removed from the road to the World Cup

South African officials are under more pressure in relation to the World Cup and this time it is not due to secruity fears or unfinished stadiums.

Like so many historic world sporting events the 2010 FIFA World Cup has been connected with injustice and accusations of cruelty and neglect to the poulation of the host nation. Similarly to the plight of Zaire nationals who were placed in cells under the ring during the ‘Rumble In The Jungle’ and the local Chinese population who had their movements and access during the 2008 Olympic games heavily restricted to create the image of a perfect society to the worlds eye. It would appear that South Africa is no different, with reports of South Africans being evicted by the government in attempt to ‘beautify the city’ of Durban. The accusations relate to the 14th May 2009, when Durban-based shack-dwellers took the KwaZulu-Natal government to court over their controversial ‘Elimination and Prevention of Re-Emergence of Slums Act’ which was designed to eliminate the slums in South Africa and move homeless shackdwellers to transit camps before the start of the 2010 World Cup. Their campaign against this act has gained support from the international media who have attempted to bring focus to the case. There is a larger controversy regarding the South African Governments N2 Gateway housing project in Cape Town.

The project plans to move 20,000 residents from the Joe Slovo Informal Settlement whch is situated along the busy N2 Freeway and construct rental flats and bond houses in the settlements place, again with the time scale coinciding with the 2010 World Cup. The plan is to move the previous residents impoverished Delft township which lies on the outskirts of Cape Town and out of sight from the N2 Freeway which many fans, media and teams may use en route to games. Consecutive protests by poor communities have taken place, with protestors demanding access to basic services, jobs, adequate housing and the democratisation of service delivery as they believe that public funds are being misused for the World Cup, building stadiums and upgrading airports rather than being used on services for the public.

Capello’s World Cup Selection Headache - Forwards

The final installment of our feature on the selection headache for England Manager Fabio Capello ahead of this summers World Cup looks at the striking options for England.

It would seem pretty obvious that Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney will occupy one of the forward roles should as expected England utilise a 4-4-2 system, most likely with Rooney sitting in the space between the midfield and a striker.

That leaves one space open, where Capello will be looking to use an out and out goalscorer in order to give England a cutting edge finish for all the potential midfield creativity. The options for Capello would seem to be pretty good with a combination of pacey strikers such as Defoe, Owen and Agbonlahor and tall players such as Crouch and Heskey who are capable of holding up the ball as well as finishing off chances. Defoe has always been a potent goal threat domestically with a good scoring record for West Ham, Portsmouth and two stints at Tottenham. His England record has been impressive as well; in the few opportunities he has had he has often scored and always managed to trouble the opposition. Defoe will certainly be in the 23 man squad, whther he is in the first 11 will likely depend on whether Capello wants to play quick, intricate football in the style of Arsenal and Barcelona or whther he will favour a ‘little and large’ approach; teaming Rooney with someone such as Heskey or Crouch as he has previously used during the qualifying campaign. Whatever the style, Michael Owen would look a long shot for a place in the 23 man squad. Having not appeared in any of Capello’s selections and playing little football at Man Utd, Owens pedigree cant be doubted but he will require a long run of games to prove his fitness and form to Capello. Agbonlahor has an outside chance of making the final 23 man squad and it would be a surprise if he started any games. His pace, aerial ability and overall finishing are good however perhaps due to the system Aston Villa play and the role he takes in that system means that he hasn’t shown he can score on a consistent basis - the requirement for a striker at international level.

In regards to the taller players who can take up the remaining striker position the options would appear to be Peter Crouch of Spurs and Emile Heskey of Aston Villa. Crouch has a solid scoring record both domestically and internationally, he is more than capable with the ball in the air and at his feet and has good positioning. However, critics argue that most of his international goals have come aginst relative weak opposition and since joining Spurs this season he has failed to score on a regular basis when he does get the chance to play. Heskey received much criticism when playing under Sven Goran Eriksson for England due to his low goal to game rate and failure on occasion to stand up when under pressure, particularly in light of his physical size. Since returning to the England set-up Heskey has impressed in his intial games upon returning proving to be a useful player in holding up the ball and continuing attacks, however he still lacks goals.

Capello may opt for a player to lead the attack that comprises both the speed and agility of Defoe et al and the stature and strength of Crouch and Heskey. If Capello, did want a player up front that comprises these qualities then he may be tempted to select Carlton Cole of West Ham or Darren Bent of Sunderland. Carlton Cole has proven that had he been given the chance at Chelsea he may now already be a regular in the England squad, he has strength, height, aerial ability, pace, touch and as he has demonstrated with some of his goals in the last two seasons for West Ham excellent finishing ability. Darren Bent has shown since leaving a turbulent time at Tottenham Hotspur, that he still has the scoring touch at Sunderland as he is currently one of the top english strikers in the Premier League and close to the top of the overall Premier League scorers. Bent has shown he can score with both feet, his head, has pace and like Cole, Defoe and Crouch has great positioning and a single minded almost selfish streak for scoring which is what top strikers have. Bent also scores a number of goals inside the 18 yard and 6 yard box respectively, which could be useful in international games, particularly for a team such as England who will look to create from the midfield and put balls in the box.

Who Capello picks will depend on how he wants England to play and where he expects goals to come from as well how many forwards he plans to take. If he decides to take an extra mdfielder and sacrifice a forward player then he may decide to choose Rooney, Defoe and one from Heskey, Crouch, Bent and Cole depending on injuries and goal to games ratio at the end of the domestic season.

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Capello’s World Cup Selection Headache - Midfielders

If Capello may struggle to decide on Englands defensive players due to a lack of options the same certainly can’t be said of the midfield.

Capello has proven some journalists wrong who believed that Gerrard and Lampard can’t play in the middle of the park together, successfully combining them in qualifying matches. However, England are currently blessed in this department with Capello having other options should either Gerrard or Lampard become unavailable. Gareth Barry is the first that comes to mind, potentially a starter for many, Barry has proved since rising to full international status that he has the ability to perform consistently well for England against any opposition . Barry can go from box to box but with the addition of having a strong defensive element to his game, which perhaps Gerrard and Lampard don’t have as well as a confidence and calm temperament key when playing at a World Cup. Should either become injured or should Capello consider a change from the 4-4-2 formation Barry will surely be the addition to the first 11 ahead of any other players in the central midfield position. Other possibilities for a central role could be the quickly emerging and ever consistent James Milner who has impressed since joining Aston Villa, continuing his impressive form from last season into this season and since moving from a wide to position to central midfield for Aston Villa has added a spate of goals to his direct creative play. Milners experience at playing Under 21 international football for England, including coming very close to winning the Under 21 European tournament means he has experience of the international tournament set-up beyond other rivals for the position. Another option, probably in a squad role is Scott Parker who has been in great form in a struggling West Ham team. Parker has the ability to play on the international stage and many pundits, journalists and players; past and present have heralded Parkers abilities as a box to box midfielder who makes as many key passes as key tackles. Parkers international career has been stunted due to a run of injuries and a spell on the bench at Stamford Bridge but he is the star player at West Ham and in difficult circumstances has shown the ability and leadership necessary to compete at the highest level. An outside chance of making the squad could be Michael Carrick. Carrick has under performed for club and country and the hype since his move from Spurs to Man Utd looks like finally fading away. Without the defensive attributes of some of his competitors and a lack of goals and creativity with his supposed passing range going forward Carrick could struggle to impress Capello enough to take him to South Africa.

England also have good options on the flanks, beginning with the left of midfield. The form of Aston Villa’s Ashley Young over the last 2-3 seasons has not only be consistent but consistently impressive and no England fan even those on the blue side of Birmingham could argue that he doesn’t deserve an opportunity on the left hand side, particularly with the injury and lack of games so far that Joe Cole has seen. However Young’s competition for that prized place on the left hand could come from Aston Villa team mate Stewart Downing. Since moving from Middlesborough to Aston Villa and recovering from an injury at the early part of the season Downing seems to be getting back to his best. No longer having to hold up a sinking ship at Middlesborough and now playing with better players in a creative free flowing attacking team with similarly talented and attacking players such as Milner, Young and Agbonlahor, Downing has imposed himself into an impressive Aston Villa team demonstrating his passing ability as well as contributing with goals. Downing may also be a useful addition to Capellos England squad as he is a naturally left footed player and would be capable of staying wide, where as previously right footed players asked to play on the left have sought to cut inside, Downing could stretch opposition midfields and keep the right back occupied whilst delivering quality balls in and around the box. Like Young, Downing is also competent from set pieces, whether from corners or freekicks Young and Downing have demonstrated that they can consistently deliver quality whether as a pass or as a shot on goal. England will need the midfield to contribute with goals and along with Gerrard and Lampard both Young and Downing have the ability and approach to contribute.

Capello will no doubt be seriously considering who to play on the right side of England midfield with several players available. Aaron Lennon has been in probably his best form this season, both creating and scoring for Tottenham with his crossing a notable improvement. Lennons pace, skill and direct play will worry any defence and should he maintain his blistering form Capello will surely consider him as a viable option however Lennon has suffered from a long injury this season and the lack of games in the lead up to the end of the season may see Lennon lose the attention of Mr Capello. Should Capello not opt for Lennon then there is a man on the red side of North London that Capello may choose in his place. Theo Walcott has as much if not more, pace, skill, passing and scoring ability as Lennon and with his experience of playing Champions League and regularly for the England Under 21’s, Walcott arguably has shown he has what it takes to play at the highest level. Walcott has suffered from injury setbacks which has restricted his time playing for club and country, however he will be desperate to match his potential on the pitch and should he hit form, playing regularly for Arsenal it would be hard for Capello to leave him on the sidelines. Capello does have other options for the right side of midfield; Shaun Wright-Phillips occupies the role for Man City and has played on the flank for England in friendlies and competitive games with varying success. However, Wright-Phillips hasn’t managed to sustain a regular role for his club and he has displayed a problem with consistency with his final delivery still not to the same standard as Walcott and Lennon. Furthermore, at a tournament such as The World Cup every player must be on top of their game for every minute of every game and Capello may feel that he can’t rely on Wright-Phillips to produce regularly enough to make the position his own. Of course it is hard to have any article regarding England without a special mention for the worlds most famous player; David Beckham.

For over a decade, since his appearance at the 1998 World Cup, Beckham has demonstrated that he can be the difference for England and with his unmatched ability for picking a pass, set pieces, experience and desire to win, Beckham would appear to be important for England both on and off the pitch. Furthermore Beckham has been successful outside of the Premier League demonstrating true World Class during his time at Real Madrid, LA Galaxy and AC Milan. Beckham has had to prove himself on numerous occasions including when he convinced the former Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello that he was worthy of a place in the Real Madrid team and was key to their eventual title success. Upon joining AC Milan he demonstrated his ability to impact positively on a team and helped the flailing team to a vast improvement during his time there so much that they made him a significant signing for this season. Beckham has not only demonstrated his footballing ability but also his dedication and mental strength and desire to win, no more so than when he returned to LA Galaxy to face fans, journalists and team mates who felt he had chosen country before club. However, he managed to prove his critics wrong once again with a series of impressive displays that led to LA Galaxy almost winning the MLS title. Away from the media hysteria Beckham is a footballer, and a very good one and with several impressive displays as a substitute for England since stepping down as Captain where his experience, vision, pride and notable passing ability helped unlock teams England had previously struggled against. Although an achilles injury appears to have put dreams of playing in a fourth World Cup to a sad end, Capello has seen first hand when at Real Madrid what Beckham offers on and off the pitch and his leadership skills off the pitch and influence on the players in the build up to games could be a key ingredient to the success of Englands World Cup campaign even if he isn’t able to play.

Capello’s World Cup Selection Headache - Defenders

Further to the previous article we continue our look at the potential selection problems for Fabio Capello ahead of this summers World Cup. Having dealt with the probable certain picks, and analysing possible goalkeeper options we turn our attention to the defenders.

As we have said in the article on Goalkeepers, only one of the four positions at the back would seem to be guaranteed; namely that of former England Captain and centre back John Terry. The injury problems new England Captain Rio Ferdinand has suffered this season and mistakes in recent performances for England such as in the game against the Dutch that led to their opening goal, has led to a place potentially opening up next to John Terry at the heart of Englands Defence.

So the question for Capello is; if Rio doesn’t make it who will take his place. Jamie Carragher has retired from international duty due to being fed up with call ups only to sit on the bench and his form this season has been far from that of a few seasons ago when Liverpool conquered Europe. A possible contender in Jolean Lescott has seen his chances fade since his big money move to Sky Blue Man City from Everton, where he has as yet failed to live up to the £20 millon price tag and form of previous seasons when he adorned the dark blue and was on the brink of breaking into the national side. Matthew Upson has recently been the man to stand next to Terry and although he is deemed a quality defender; big, strong, good in the air and a brave tackler there are suggestions that his lack of playing in Europe and relative inexperience at international level may leave him struggling should England qualify through their group and come up against the attacking potency of the likes of Spain, Brazil, Argentina, Portugal, Germany or even France. This may be one position where Capello suffers from a lack of options rather than trying to fit so much quality into so few spaces as he has in midfield and attack. Other players who could make the step up should Ferdinand not make it could be Boltons Gary Cahill, either of Tottenhams Jonathan Woodgate or Ledley King, however both are injury prone and this has been a blight against them throughout their careers who otherwise could well have been first choice ahead of Terry and Ferdinand. Finally the right full back position is one Capello will have to mull over.

Glen Johnson has been the regular right back, however Liverpools exit from the Champions League and poor form in the League and domestic cups has done little to show case his talents in the same way as when he was performing for Portsmouth last season. England are unquestionalby light in the right full back department, and although praised for his talents going forward Johnson has been criticised for his skill as a defender. Other options are few and far between, Aston Villa’s Luke Young announced his retirement from international football and has been overshadowed by Cueller at right back at his club. Gary Neville looks to be struggling to play regularly and perform domestically let alone play international football. Wes brown could be an option but again lack of games, form and fitness don’t work in his favour so it maybe that Capello selects Johnson and either uses his tactical know how to use other players help Johnson when defending or hope he has an inspired tournament such as Danny Mills did when he featured for England at a World Cup some time ago.

Ashley Cole who has been in his best form for a few seasons since leaving Arsenal seemed to have the left full back position sewn up until he broke his ankle and joined his Chelsea team mate and Captain John Terry spending more time on the front page of the papers instead of the back and with Wayne Bridges withdrawl from international duty the left side which seemed so secure is now an open race. Leighton Baines has excelled this season after a slow start to his Everton Career, solid going forward and defensively and very useful at set pieces his may be the story of a player with no chance becoming an England left back at a World Cup. Stephen Warnock is another potential candidate, playing well in a consistent Aston Villa team, including becoming runners up in a closely fought League Cup final. Capello may opt to use Lescott and ths would open up the opportunity for another striker or midfielder to be taken as Lescott could play centrally or on the left. However Lescotts form has been indifferent and he would arguably struggle against the Worlds Best right wingers such as Messi or Ronaldo.

Capello’s World Cup selection Headache - Goalkeepers

England Manager Fabio Capello faces a selection headache in the build up to this summers World Cup in South Africa, with many positions seemingly up for grabs and with only 23 places to give.

From front to back few pundits, journalists and possibly the man himself knows who will play where once England kick off their World Cup campaign aganst the USA on the 12th June 2010. Unlike recent tournaments the first 11 arent easy to predict as they have previously been due to a combination of injuries to players such as Rio Ferdinand, long term absentee Owen Hargreaves, Michael Owens lack of games as well as the emergence of players such as Ashley Young, James Milner, Aaaron Lennon & Theo Walcott. In previous campaigns for the European Championship (excluding 2008 of course) and World Cups you wouldn’t be wrong in believing you can name at least 7-10 of the first 11 with the names Terry, Ferdinand, Ashley Cole, Gerrard, Lampard, Beckham, Joe Cole, Rooney and Owen likely to feature. However this time around things are different for the England team and perhaps that isn’t a bad thing.

Lets start with the players and positions likely to be filled, if as expected Capello plays a 4-4-2 with one striker and a classic No.10 role. England Ex-Captain, and tabloid favourite John Terry will undoubtedly start at Centre Back, even if his popularity and form both seem on the way down. In midfield Capello has demonstrated during qualifying games that contrary to some journalists beliefs Gerrard and Lampard can work effectively next to eachother in the middle and then Rooney should take up the No.10 role sitting just behind the main striker. This therefore leaves 6 positions up for grabs if our theory proves to be right, so who are the main contenders and where?

Lets start at the back and work forward with the Goalkeepers. England hasn’t really had a solid No.1 arguably since David Seaman, with David James, Paul Robinson, Robert Green and David James again all being given opportunities to impress. No-one can deny the experience and ability of David James, however critics would argue that he has had injury problems this season and is capable of having a ‘howler’ moment and in tournaments such as the World Cup where to win or lose is such a fine line will Capello feel that James ability outshines these cringe filled moments. Another contender is the Blackburn and former England No.1 Paul Robinson. Robinson is a talented shot stopper and sitting behind pretty dodgy defences at his 3 last clubs including Blackburn as well as Tottenham and Leeds he still managed to pull off great performances and maintain the standard to be Englands No.1. However an error in the Euro qualifier against Croatia and susbsequent drop in form for club and country (he was Totenham Hotspur at the time) with England failing to Qualify led to many dismissing Robinson as a potential candidate. However, since his move to the North West last summer Robinson has put on some impressive displays behind an ordinary Blackburn team including performances that helped Blackburn to the League Cup Semi-Final. Thirdly, we have Robert Green of West Ham, potentially the favourite, with obvious talent and ability, a calm nature and skills with dealing with crosses and one on ones as well as great reflexes he could be the main contender. Unfortunately for Green injuries have been hs curse when international duty has come around, leaving Capello with few opportunities to see him play at that level then he may have liked. There are of course the outsiders in the shape of Chris Kirkland and Ben Foster. Kirkland has been besieged with back problems and playing in a heavily conceeding Wigan Athletic team doesnt appear to be helping his chances of making the squad let alone No.1. Foster on the other hand could stand a chance if he played more often but lying at the No.3 goalkeeping spot for Man Utd, and with few games under his belt, the ods would be long on his name appearing on the team sheet unless he gets more games at Man Utd or somewhere else.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Gangs threaten 2010 World Cup fans

Police are currently hunting 2 supposed gang memebrs who threatened to rob and murder fans travelling to South Africa for the World Cup in 2010 whilst being interviewed on TV channel eTV in South Africa.

The two men said they would carry out the robberies and murders of travelling fans as retaillation for colonial wrong doings. It is expected that over 450,000 fans will travel to South Africa for the World Cup and since the announcement that South Africa would be the first African nation to ever stage the famous tournament much has been made of the authorities inability to provide suffecient secruity during the month long tournament.

South Africa is recognised as one of the most dangerous countries in the world with a reported 50 murders every day as well as other violent crimes and followed by the recent shooting of the Togo national team bus in Angola, in which 3 men died during the African Nations Cup, questions are being asked of how the South African authorities plan to deal with the threat.

Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa and Commissioner Bheki Cele condemend eTV for broadcasting the interview with Nathi Mthethwa quoted as saying “It further provides an unwanted public platform for thugs and criminals to serve to undermine South Africa’s efforts to ensure a safe and secure 2010 FIFA World Cup”. However, the police commisioner continued that foreign visitors would be safe.

Police have demanded that eTV reveal the identities of the masked men who made the threats during the interview, however so far the station has not complied and said that the interview was a good piece of investigative journalism which didn’t glorify the criminals.