Brief Fifa World Cup History 16-ENGLAND. This will be Englands fourteenth World Cup and their fifth on the spin. Famously finished as champions on home soil in 1966 and were knocked out at the semi-final stage at Italia 90. Since then, its been a familiar tale of great hope, followed by penalty shoot-out heartbreak and the inevitable fall out and disappointment that follows. Will it be any different this time around? Arguably not. England face tough group fixtures against Italy and Uruguay and have an inexperienced squad. On the plus side, the likes of Adam Lallana and Ross Barkley have no fear and could well upstage some of the tournaments more leading lights. Manager: Roy Hodgson The former Liverpool and West Bromwich Albion boss is taking charge of his country at a World Cup for the first time. Led England to Euro 2012, but was appointed just before the tournament, leaving him little time to prepare. Its different this time around and after seeing his side qualify unbeaten, Hodgson can have no excuses. Hes arguably gambled to some extent, including young guns Luke Shaw, Raheem Sterling and Lallana, with more experienced men staying at home. But could that be the breath of fresh air England need? Captain: Steven Gerrard In a side full of youthful promise and exuberance, Gerrard provides the international experience every side needs. The Liverpool skipper had a superb season domestically, almost guiding his side to the Premier League title. Has adapted his game wonderfully to a new position in front of the back four, expect him to play the same role for England with the likes of Jack Wilshere, Jordan Henderson and Lallana doing the leg work around him. Player to Watch: Wayne Rooney Since bursting on to the international scene at Euro 2004, Rooney has flattered to deceive at the highest level for England. His outburst following Englands 0-0 draw with Algeria at the 2010 World Cup - “Nice to see your own fans booing you” - nicely summed up the Manchester United strikers frustrations. But after a disappointing Premier League season, Rooney has looked particularly lively in England training. “I want to show the world what I can do and this is the time do it,” said Rooney, in the build up to the tournament. “There will be no excuses. This is the last big one that I feel will get the best out of me. I can deliver and this is the one where I have to show what I can do.’ England in the media England should play like Liverpool.... according to former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes. STORY: BBC Jack Wilshere aiming for World Cup glory. STORY: Daily Mirror England will cope without John Terry at the World Cup according to Phil Jagielka. STORY: Daily Mail Expected Progress: Round of 16. Slim Chance though. #Uncle_Zazu
Posted on: Wed, 04 Jun 2014 14:46:27 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015