Transition time for European heavyweights

 

 

By David Lee Wheatley

 

 

Three of the biggest names in European football must go back to the drawing board following a massively disappointing showing at the World Cup from the trio of Spain, Italy and England, but what procedures can they install in an attempt to avoid a repeat of this summer’s failures at the next major international tournament taking place in 2016?

Spain’s stumbles in Brazil created the strongest reverberations around the world when the defending champions crashed spectacularly at the hands of Holland in their opening group game. That 5-1 loss effectively signalled the end of an era for a side that had dominated international football since 2008 and conjured serious doubts around the Mediterranean nation’s ability to regain their place at the top of the pile again in the foreseeable future.

Departing greats such as David Villa, Xavi and Iker Casillas all appeared to be way past their best, while long-term inspirational leader Carles Puyol didn’t even make the squad due to injury and will retire from all football this summer. The error-strewn displays of Real Madrid goalkeeping legend Casillas were particularly shocking and contributed heavily to the downfall of Vicente Del Bosque’s men.

Italy, meanwhile, started brightly with an impressive 2-1 victory over England in their first fixture, but faded badly afterwards when losing to both Costa Rica and Uruguay without recording a goal. Their third-place finish in Group D caused the emotional resignation of head coach Cesare Prandelli and indeed the mourning of a nation at the death of their World Cup dreams.

Again, older stars within the Azzurri ranks looked jaded and could not inspire their younger colleagues to glory. Gianluigi Buffon, so long a talisman for the Italians between the sticks, missed the win over England in the opening game due to injury, but returned in place of Salvatore Sirigu to preside over two defeats to teams they were initially expected to beat in order to progress.

The usually outstanding Andrea Pirlo was peerless in Manaus against the English, yet largely struggled to replicate that form thereafter. He may have signed another contract at Juventus, but the ‘Player of the Tournament’ at Euro 2012 didn’t cope well with the conditions over in South America and it seems unlikely that it’ll be possible to rely on the talented playmaker two years from now.

Another whose status at the highest level must be cast into doubt is rehabilitated ‘enfant terrible’ Antonio Cassano, who looked out of his depth when utilised by Prandelli at the World Cup. Italy were toothless going forward when in opposition to the rough-house tactics of Uruguay and the well organised counter-attacking style of surprise package Costa Rica, so will need to find a reliable goalscorer to take the burden off the mercurial Mario Balotelli. Furthermore, highly-rated holding midfielder Daniele De Rossi also failed to convince and must up his game considerably if he wishes to stake a claim for a spot at Euro 2016.

Roy Hodgson gave way to public pressure when choosing a youthful and vibrant squad seemingly full of promise, but which ultimately failed to deliver. A large proportion of England’s problems differ to both Spain and Italy in that they’ve already embarked upon the process of renewing an ageing team, which is a task that still looms large for the other two nations.

Wise old head coach Hodgson must hope several of his newest charges blossom into top-level operators, with at least one or two developing world-class pedigrees. The only footballers within the 23-man World Cup outfit selected by Hodgson who were performing at that exalted level previously were Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard; the first one careered backwards hugely since his international zenith at Euro 2004 and the other two now at an age when their best days are truly behind them. That so-called ‘golden generation’ whom travelled to the World Cup of 2002 didn’t come close to realising the lofty expectations placed upon them and have since broken up to leave behind a relatively naïve bunch of players who need to learn quickly.

The English require an identity; Italy always look to field a tight, organised defence and use their penchant for counter-attacking to take a lead which they can then defend, Spain their possession play, pressing and two-touch passing. Hodgson must forge ahead with his favoured strategy and select players who fit nicely into that framework.

England’s displays against Uruguay and especially Italy were generally well received by fans and the media alike, but individual mistakes proved costly in both ties and saw them bow out of proceedings meekly after a meagre two matches. It was a chastening experience for the squad, but one which will hopefully toughen them up for the significant challenges ahead.

Spain probably have the greatest chance of bouncing back swiftly on the face of it, given they have all the necessary processes in place which helped them to already achieve so much from that breakthrough triumph at Euro 2008 onwards. Their academies regularly produce footballers of the highest quality and undoubtedly will continue to do so.

It is the start of a turbulent transitional phase for the Spanish and the time is right for a change of leadership, so elder statesman Del Bosque must step aside to allow another man to take the team forward. However, the basic principles of his reign must be carried through in terms of style and tactics and then built upon for the overall set-up to flourish over the next few years. Pep Guardiola would be the ideal solution, but he remains committed to Bayern Munich and therefore La Roja’s search for a fresh custodian will go on for sometime yet.

Cesare Prandelli’s decision to leave his post and seek pastures new in Turkey with Galatasaray causes a void that will be difficult to fill with an adequate replacement. The man who left Istanbul to create the vacancy at Gala, Roberto Mancini, is the bookies’ favourite and certainly possesses the silverware in his locker to suggest he’s ready for the call having won both the English Premier League and Serie A titles during his time in club management. However, he is a divisive figure who doesn’t always see eye-to-eye with his players, including a certain Signor Balotelli during their time together at Manchester City.

Alternative candidates Francesco Guidolin and Massimiliano Allegri don’t exactly inspire great excitement, as the former is mainly used to guiding unfashionable clubs to higher heights than expected - but still not winning anything of note - and the latter was unceremoniously sacked by Milan last winter with the San Siro giants struggling in lower mid-table.

A bold choice of manager by the Italian FA would be advisable, whilst the over-reliance on master craftsman Pirlo must cease in order for the team to improve sufficiently. The likes of Balotelli, Verratti, Immobile and Insigne have the opportunity to take on the mantle from more established stars and thus drag the Azzurri back to the pinnacle of world football once again. That crop of talent hold the tools to become successful and now they have to use them effectively; whether there are more like them waiting in the wings to beef up Italy’s options remains to be seen.

Back with England, the consensus appears to be to allow Hodgson a chance to continue the work he began in rejuvenating the side, while looking towards Euro 2016 in France as the potential tournament when that spadework will begin reaping rewards.

There is a fair degree of uncertainty surrounding the Three Lions’ future simply because nobody can accurately predict how well this group of emerging players will develop, both individually and collectively. However, Hodgson has put his faith in those youngsters to bring smiles to English faces and he must stick wholeheartedly by that philosophy; two vital ingredients that would assist markedly would be the unearthing of a commanding central defender and also a striker who doesn’t require five clear-cut chances to score a goal.

 

Should they seek out and locate players of that ilk, while further enhancing the skills of those already harnessed within the squad, then England could confidently believe that a happier period lies just ahead of them.

 



Twitter: @davewh1980

Classic clash: Italy v England October 1997

By David Lee Wheatley

England travelled to Rome for the final match of the 1998 World Cup qualifying campaign requiring a solitary point at the Stadio Olimpico to guarantee their spot at the tournament proper. Italy famously triumphed over the English in the reverse fixture when the diminutive Gianfranco Zola beat goalkeeper Ian Walker at his near post to secure only their second-ever victory at Wembley.

 

Manager Glenn Hoddle knew it would be a tough assignment for his squad, but fully believed in their ability to confound the critics and make it through to France '98 ahead of their fierce rivals. At least a draw in the Eternal City and the Three Lions would be roaring all the way to the finals, while consigning the mighty Italians to the dreaded play-offs.

 

The former Tottenham maestro was known for his love of cultured football, but felt it necessary to instruct his charges to sit back and hit the Azzurri on the counter-attack whenever possible. He was aware that the hosts would strive to put England under constant pressure and deemed it too risky to attempt a reciprocation of those tactics. Therefore, the team were well-drilled in advance over the rigid nature of their defensive duties in order to stifle the opposition threat.

 

Hoddle selected an experienced line-up including captain for the evening Paul Ince, Tony Adams, Paul Gascoigne, David Seaman and Ian Wright. Meanwhile, the Italian starting eleven was brimming with global superstars such as Maldini, Albertini, Vieri, Zola and Pippo Inzaghi to name but a few, thus providing a rather daunting prospect when the visitors faced up to the unenviable task in front of them.

 

An incredible 81,000 fans packed into the Olimpico to witness the contest and set about the creation of a wonderfully partisan atmosphere reminiscent of the infamous Colosseum itself. The tension was palpable due to the sheer magnitude of the occasion and yet the English appeared completely focused as the sides lined up prior to kick-off.

 

As predicted, Italy reserved the lion's share of territory, as England allowed them to play with relative freedom until approaching the final third of the field. Then they would press, pursue and chase down every ball with boundless energy, heroically blocking everything which came into their path. Ince and Gascoigne were particularly impressive in central midfield, working doggedly to win back possession and proceeding to retain it with great poise. The pair spent almost the entire game relentlessly stalking every blade of grass on the pitch in true lung-busting fashion, while bidding to stop the Italian artisans from making a crucial breakthrough.

 

Home hopes blew up spectacularly late on, as the away team successfully frustrated their illustrious foes until Italy's discipline eventually deserted them altogether when in utter desperation to claim three points. Locally-born wide midfielder Angelo Di Livio lost his head completely after 76 minutes, resulting in a sending-off that made England's job that much easier thanks to the departure of the tigerish Juventus man.

 

Battered and bruised, courageous captain Ince epitomised the battling spirit within the camp throughout England's rearguard action against the well-fancied Azzurri. Just like Terry Butcher years before him, the inspirational leader stood up to the rigours of the heated clash while sporting a makeshift bandage around his head following a stray Demetrio Albertini elbow, along with a white jersey heavily stained with bright red blood. He should have received several stitches in the wound, but having been informed of the 30 minutes needed to administer the patch-up work, Ince refused the offer and continued to play on which allowed the visitors to remain at full strength throughout. It showed superb comradeship by the former Inter dynamo and proved just how much the result meant to him and his compatriots.

 

In a manic last few moments, Ian Wright hit the post when most believed he was certain to score, while colossal striker Christian Vieri missed a header in the dying seconds at the other end to effectively seal that precious 0-0 scoreline the underdogs so desired. Once the full-time whistle sounded, England's exhausted heroes fell to the ground in sheer tiredness and relief.They'd produced one of the finest English performances on foreign soil in living memory, defying the odds to conquer Rome and advance to the World Cup finals after an agonising eight-year wait since Italia '90.

 

Let's hope this latest generation of footballers who are currently entrusted with the country's fortunes at the 2014 World Cup can replicate the same level of pride in the shirt so readily displayed by those on that glorious night in the Italian capital - we might just stand half a chance!

Twitter: @davewh1980

Gazza Mania! - #BlogToLisbon campaign by www.camporetro.com

My entry for the #BlogToLisbon campaign by www.camporetro.com

 

By David Lee Wheatley

It was a balmy late-August evening when north London club Tottenham Hotspur visited for the opening home fixture of Sunderland's 1990-91 Division One campaign and it was sure to be a huge test of the Rokerites' ability to cope in the top-flight following an incredibly fortunate promotion.

Swindon Town triumphed over Sunderland at Wembley in the May play-off final thanks to a Gary Bennett own goal, which apparantly condemned the north-east club to another year battling to reach the promised land. However, The Robins were found to have made illegal payments to players over a four-year period, which breached several Football League regulations along the way. The alloted punishment was to have their advancement to the First Division annulled in favour of losing finalists Sunderland taking their spot instead.

Denis Smith's men were suddenly on an incredible high due to their unexpected reprieve following the awful setback they'd suffered at Wembley. The team were determined to make the most of their good fortune and they couldn't have chosen a better way to welcome top-flight football back to Roker Park than to take on glamorous foes Spurs, complete with two superstars fresh from competing in a World Cup that had England fans everywhere dreaming of lifting the golden trophy for the first time since 1966.

I was stood in the Roker End that day as an excited ten-year-old, just to the right of the goal in a corner compartment that was filling up to maximum capacity in anticipation of kick-off. The floodlights shone down on an immaculate playing surface and the atmosphere inside was absolutely electric. My cousin and I were taken to the match by my father and we always got there early before most supporters had arrived; that decision positioned us right at the front behind large yellow metal fencing, which I could barely see over!

As kick-off approached, it became apparent our part of the ground was becoming dangerously full with no sign of any let-up in the increasing amount of fans making their way into that corner. I actually heard at one stage to my utter horror a steward exclaiming, "we can get another thousand in here!". At that point, I was being pushed into the fence by a large group of grown men who'd made their way into the area surrounding us and it was quickly developing into a terribly worrying situation!

Remember, this was before all-seater stadia had been introduced and a young lad of my age at the time didn't stand a chance of keeping his footing when getting crushed against the metal fencing. Eventually, the side of my face was jammed up against the yellow bars ahead of me and a split-second decision by some of the stewards in attendance meant that all of the children at the front were lifted out to safety and led away from the scene. Unbelievably for us, we were all lined up immediately behind the advertising hoardings in a prime location extremely close to the pitch just in time to witness the two sets of players making their way on to the field.

Rapturous applause rang out around a packed Roker Park to herald the arrival of the teams with Spurs resplendent in their yellow and black away strip, as the likes of Gary Lineker and Paul Gascoigne ran around doing warm-up stretches in preparation for the start of the game. Indeed, during one particular stretch down to touch his toes, the Geordie joker purposefully pointed his backside in the direction of the Main Stand when reacting to the dog's abuse being hurled in his direction from the terraces! Gazza's countrywide popularity had reached fever pitch due to his wonderful performances at Italia '90 and, of course, those infamous tears he shed in the semi-final against West Germany. He'd literally become the most adored footballer on the planet almost overnight, yet the Sunderland fans still hadn't forgotten his allegiance to Newcastle United!

His slightly chubby appearance was unmercifically prayed upon by the red-and-white army when a shower of Mars Bars hailed down on the Gateshead-born midfielder. In true Gazza style, he picked up the nearest chocolate bar, took a big bite and threw it behind the goal where our group were sat. The boy to my right, whom I wasn't familiar with, quickly snatched the half-eaten Mars Bar before wrapping it up and putting it in his pocket for safe-keeping. What a souvenir to take home; completely congealed most likely by the time he got back in the house from the warmth of the coat pocket on a sticky summer's night!

The anxious rush to grab that sought-after item of Mars memorabilia serves to perfectly illustrate the hysteria surrounding Gascoigne during that era; everybody wanted a piece of him, even his left-over food! He'd been the stand-out performer at the World Cup and his fame had peaked at the sort of level usually reserved for movie or rock stars. Nobody had captured the imagination of the English public in quite the same way as Gazza had achieved and to have both he and Lineker in direct competition with our hometown club - when we initially believed just a few months prior that we'd be watching Division Two football all over again - was an awesome sight to behold.

Even though the match ended in a 0-0 draw, it was a fabulous experience to be sat practically on the byline watching proceedings unfold and to witness those two international heroes in action. The 30,000 crowd were treated to a decent contest, but with very few goalscoring opportunities to speak of. I do, however, recall a Gary Lineker strike from about 20 yards flying towards my little face at a rate of knots before I took swift evasive action in order to avoid getting a burst nose or black eye to round off my eventful evening!

That early mark within the infancy of a brand new season held boundless hopes and dreams for both clubs and their dedicated followers, but it all ended in great disappointment league-wise. Terry Venables' side were third in the league after 17 matches, but fell away alarmingly to finish tenth while local arch-rivals Arsenal claimed the title. However, they tempered that feeling of failure by claiming the FA Cup when defeating Nottingham Forest in the final, albeit with the devastating loss of Gascoigne to serious injury. Meanwhile, Sunderland's Division One odyssey lasted only a solitary term, as they were relegated in 19th place alongside bottom club Derby County.

Despite the profound sadness related to relegation, I shall always fondly remember the day World Cup wonders Gazza and Gary Lineker came to town!

Follow me on Twitter: @davewh1980

 

In conjunction with @camporetro for their #BlogToLisbon competition

World Cup watch: Carroll v Lambert

By David Lee Wheatley

Southampton striker Rickie Lambert this week stated his direct rival for an England squad place is West Ham United's Andy Carroll, as the race for a World Cup spot heats up to boiling point. There are many similarities between the pair with both fabulous in the air and physically imposing, thus Roy Hodgson has a difficult decision to make when choosing which target man to take with him.

Where the clearest difference lies is Lambert's ability on the deck, which supersedes Carroll's skill on the ball. The Southampton man also possesses a dangerous direct free-kick, but he would have to overcome the seniority of one or two others for the ball when in an England shirt. However, Carroll is without doubt the finest header of a football in the Premier League, which is his greatest strength and sets him apart from most English strikers of his generation.

It used to be the norm to see tall, strapping centre-forwards strutting their stuff in almost all English club sides, but the modern trend has favoured smaller, pacy strikers over recent years meaning that an old-fashioned number nine has become something of a rarity. Hence why only one of either Lambert or Carroll can realistically expect to make the plane to Rio alongside vastly different types of strikers such as Rooney, Welbeck, Defoe and Sturridge; none of whom fit the same profile as Lambert or Carroll.

The stats so far this season suggest Lambert is the better bet, but Andy Carroll only returned to action after long-term injury in January and therefore managed just 13 appearances including this weekend's clash with Crystal Palace. Just two goals have come from Carroll in that period, but the lack of a prolific strike-rate could be attributed to those injury worries which plagued the former Newcastle United man throughout the first half of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Lambert has again been a talisman for a highly talented Southampton squad this season and he's assisted in the south coast side's encampment within the Premier League top ten for the majority of this term. The Kirkby-born battler has worked his way through every single division of league football and his 11 goals, plus 10 assists, from 34 league appearances keeps up his excellent 1-in-3 scoring ratio, while illustrating his importance to the team's passing style and build-up play.

Neither star managed to hit the mark today, as both spurned some decent chances in their respective fixtures. The Saints could only take a point away to Villa in a 0-0 draw, while the Hammers lost 0-1 in front of their own fans against Palace. Still, Carroll's injury issues in tandem with Southampton's sterling season may have handed Hodgson more opportunities to see Lambert in action and could put the amiable Scouser above his Geordie compatriot in the eyes of the national team manager.

In summary, if Hodgson wants a player who will come on the field of play to put himself about and apply pressure upon the opposition defence in the air allied to a more direct approach to the game, then Andy Carroll would be the most suitable option. Should the England boss prefer a powerful player who can set up and score goals, slot into a more progressive style of play and contribute inside and outside of the box, it has to be 32-year-old Lambert.

Either way the squad announcement eventually goes, both men in question would likely begin the World Cup looking on from the bench with Rooney and Sturridge apparantly ahead of them in the pecking order as we approach the tournament. Their potential impact from a substitute role will be extremely important in the final reckoning and should deem which player gets the nod for the biggest test of their careers.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Will Pearce arrival prove to be yet another false dawn?

By David Lee Wheatley

Nottingham Forest cult hero Stuart Pearce has agreed to take over as their next manager, effective from July 1st. It heralds the beginning of a new era at the City Ground following the abrupt end of Billy Davies' second spell in charge at a club desperate for a return to the glory days of yore.

It was widely hoped that Davies would be capable of delivering promotion this campaign, but an eight-game winless streak left their season in danger of falling apart and led to the fiery Scot's dismissal.

The Reds sit one place and two points adrift of a play-off spot with seven matches left to play and caretaker boss Gary Brazil will feel an opportunity remains to make it to the promised land of the Premier League. Whether they're ready for such an elevation on the field of play is debatable, but off the pitch it would certainly give the club's coffers a massive shot in the arm as debts continue to mount.

Whatever division in which Pearce eventually takes charge come this summer, it appears a huge challenge for 'Psycho' to bring back the good times to a city starved of top-flight football for 15 years. 

Memories of the awesome side which achieved successive European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980 loom large over every manager who takes on the unenviable task of bossing Forest and it'll be no different for Pearce, despite his 12 years sterling service as a player there. Could he be the one who finally bucks the trend and consigns the ghost of Brian Clough to the history books once and for all?

His record in club management hardly inspires confidence, with a two-year spell at Manchester City starting out impressively before quickly descending into a nightmare prior to his sacking. Pearce also had a short time filling in as Forest caretaker manager in 1997, but he chose to leave in order to continue his playing career with Newcastle United instead of taking on the role full-time.

However, it was while in charge of the England U21 team that he set about constructing a fine coaching reputation during six years leading the young Lions, with a zenith reached when taking the side all the way to the 2009 European Championship final. His success at that level also encouraged then national team head coach Fabio Capello to include Pearce in preparations for the senior squad. Finally, he was handed the unique chance to coach Team GB at the 2012 Olympics and also enjoyed one match as caretaker with the senior team during the interim period between an unsavoury crumbling of the largely troubled Capello reign and the signing of current incumbent Roy Hodgson.

Pearce has successfully shed the whole 'Psycho' image during his time in coaching, while putting himself in the frame for many sought-after roles thanks to his exploits within the England set-up. Additionally, he knows Nottingham Forest better than anyone and that inside knowledge, coupled with an abiding bond with supporters, will stand him in good stead once he officially arrives to begin the job of rebuilding the team from the ground up.

Huge stock is placed on the academy production line in the eyes of the 51-year-old Londoner and a significant aim of his will be to develop a clutch of top footballers who come through the system to then flourish in the first-team. Allied to that belief in youth, there'll be an urgent requirement to bolster the squad with more experienced stars no matter which league Forest feature in next season. The former left-back will need a separate plan for each eventuality, thus making it essential to instigate a double-pronged search for potential transfer targets that would suit either division.

Despite initially turning down the chance to take over at the City Ground with seven games to go, it proved too great a pull to ensconce himself back at his old stomping ground once the focus of talks shifted towards a summer start date. Pearce admitted he had too much on his plate currently, but the renegotiated offer sounded just right for a man who has never been one to shirk a challenge.

"By the time I've finished with management – and hopefully that will be a number of years yet – if ever I felt I had the opportunity to join this great club and turned it down, that I had never walked through those doors as manager, I don't think I would not be totally fulfilled," he proclaimed when introduced to the press.

"I am happy to lead that kind of challenge. I want to galvanise this club and drive it forwards."

If Pearce is afforded the time in which to realise his exalted ambitions for the future of the club, then fans of a true 'sleeping giant' of English football may well find it eminently possible to look ahead with a much brighter outlook after several years of torment.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Match preview: England v Montenegro

By David Lee Wheatley

England take on Montenegro this evening knowing only a win will do in their quest to reach the World Cup finals next year.

A decisive double-header awaits Roy Hodgson’s men against tricky opposition in the shape of the Montenegrins and Tuesday’s foes Poland, with maximum points required in order to make it mathematically impossible to be caught by closest rivals Ukraine in Group H.

Hodgson will be thankful that he can count on a clean bill of health going into tonight’s clash, having lost Ashley Cole to a rib injury before squad training began. Everton’s in-form left-back Leighton Baines is likely to take his place in the starting line-up, with Kieran Gibbs acting as back-up.

Aside from that, the predatory Daniel Sturridge regains his squad place after missing out on the last round of qualification matches with a thigh strain. The Liverpool star’s return hands the manager a dilemma as to how much attacking intent he wishes his side to portray at Wembley; does he plump for three out-and-out strikers, a tandem up-top or play his cards more conservatively?

The good news – if it’s to be believed – surrounds stylish forward Mirko Vucinic’s inability to feature through a knock picked up on Champions League duty for Juventus, which would be a huge boost for the home side but a bitter blow for the visitors. Others expected to be unavailable to Montenegro coach Branko Brnovic include goalkeeper Mladen Bozovic, defender Marko Basa and midfield player Miodrag Pekovic.

Lying one point clear of Ukraine and Montenegro, the English can seal their spot in Brazil with successive victories over the coming days. However, Montenegro held up well against England in past meetings and Poland are no pushovers. It’d be a massive disappointment should the Three Lions end up in a play-off or worse, making it imperative the men tasked with gaining the results Hodgson desperately seeks perform when it really matters.

Let’s hope England avoid any more astonishing embarrassments such as their demoralising failures in the run up to the USA World Cup of 1994 and Euro 2008. Crunch time is upon the nation and the finest footballers in the land must deliver the goods, despite the weight of expectation on their shoulders.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Too much, too soon for England starlets?

By David Lee Wheatley

There was once a time when a player had to achieve success and hold down a regular place at club level before being elevated to the senior England national team, but now it seems a handful of impressive performances domestically is a sure-fire route to a first cap. Is it all too much, too soon for the young crop of stars currently trying to make their way in the game?

Ross Barkley and Andros Townsend are the latest beneficiaries of the fast-track mentality prevailing within the English game following a promising start to the season from both. Predecessors in recent times include Phil Jones, Kyle Walker, Chris Smalling, Tom Cleverley, Jack Wilshire and Danny Welbeck - all of whom were simply required to display a short stint of good form to ensure a place in the England squad.

This suggests a dearth of established talent in between the older and younger generations; there's very little competition at national level to force the up-and-coming footballers into producing high quality performances over a longer period of time domestically to earn their selection.

Further evidence of that is the fact that a large majority of fans and media immediately crowned Jack Wilshere as the 'savour of English football' when making his international bow in August 2010, just 21 months after signing his very first pro contract with Arsenal. Since that debut, he's featured on ten occasions for England and come up against severe pressure for a position in the Arsenal starting eleven this campaign thanks to the much vaunted transfer-record signing of German superstar Mesut Ozil.

Now, that moves me on handily to the next issue with plunging inexperienced players into the England side. With so many foreign talents in the Premier League, what happens if the potential of those aforementioned players ends up laying dormant while they warm the bench at club level? Will they be dumped by England never to be seen again? Should they be considered for international duty even if they can't get a look in for their Premier League club?

All those problems will likely come to face England boss Roy Hodgson head-on in the run-up to the World Cup, should the Group H leaders negotiate their way safely through to the tournament proper in Brazil next year.

The ability of Barkley, Townsend and others mentioned isn't in doubt, but would it equip them better for the rigours of a qualification campaign and subsequent high-pressure competitions if they had to become absolutely solid picks over a number of seasons for their clubs before advancing to play for the Three Lions?

Or, is it the case that Hodgson has no choice but to throw the largely untried young men into action earlier than he'd ideally wish and therefore it's just the way it has to be?

Much of the situation behind that conundrum comes down to the plethora of non-English footballers in the top-flight blocking the progress of players as they get a little older. The best English starlets will always burst through the red tape, but holding down a spot in the starting line-up is the tricky bit. They should be expected to do that before getting a full cap and it would give them extra motivation to prove themselves and make it completely unnecessary for their club manager to introduce any new blood from abroad in their favoured position. If they're going to be handed the keys to the kingdom after a few weeks of first-team football, then where is the incentive to become the best they can be?

That goes hand-in-hand with the fact that those kids who begin to make a name for themselves often get a massive wage rise after creating an impact. Once they've got the £50,000+ per week pay packet and an England cap before the age of 21 or 22, what more do they have to do to make it big? Precisely nothing - that's what. They've already made it in their minds and there's no prize of an England career at the end of a long road. Too much, too soon indeed.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Lambert and Welbeck link-up lights up Wembley

By David Lee Wheatley

England ran away with a 4-0 World Cup qualification victory over Moldova last night, but lost two-goal Danny Welbeck to a harsh yellow card which rules the Manchester United forward out of Tuesday's crunch clash in the Ukraine.

Captain Gerrard set England on their way at Wembley with a fine drive into the bottom left-hand corner of the net after 12 minutes and the lead was doubled from close range midway through the opening period by Southampton striker Rickie Lambert on his first international start.

Danny Welbeck strayed marginally offside moments before half-time and went through with the shot at goal after the whistle had gone. Welbeck claimed he didn't hear the official, but was booked nonetheless. It was a strange decision by the referee in the circumstances, as it seemed a pointless exercise to waste time with England cruising and obviously far superior to their opponents. The booking puts the live-wire United man out of Tuesday's trip to Kiev and creates a real selection headache for manager Roy Hodgson, especially if natural replacement Daniel Sturridge fails to return to fitness in time.

The disappointment didn't dampen Welbeck's enthusiasm for the task in hand, as a probing pass from Lambert found his strike partner to run on to and finish easily right on the stroke of half-time.

Gerrard's long-range passing was finding the target every time with Ngland constantly forcing the issue in an attacking sense, while another clever piece of skill from Lambert presented Welbeck with his second and number four of the night for the home side on 50 minutes. Lambert dissected the Moldova defence with an accurate assist and Welbeck dinked the ball over the helpless goalkeeper to end the contest with most of the second half still to go.

Moldova were giving the likes of Wilshere and Walcott some rough treatment throughout and offered absolutely nothing going forward. Ukraine will offer much more of a threat next week and England will sorely miss Danny Welbeck on the evidence of yesterday's performance.

Roy Hodgson will be particularly pleased with Gerrard, Lambert and Welbeck, but knows he must find a solution to the suspension of the Manchester-born star. If Sturridge doesn't make it, that leaves options very thin on the ground for the England boss going into an extremely vital fixture.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Facebook.com/DLWSports

England v Scotland preview

By David Lee Wheatley

The oldest rivalry in international football resumes tonight when arch-enemies England and Scotland meet at Wembley.

On the face of it, the assumption would be that Scotland view this as a bigger match than perhaps England do at this stage. The home side have one eye on the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, which are absolutely vital to English hopes of making it all the way to Brazil 2014. Scotland, meanwhile, have no chance of making it to next year's showpiece and therefore will surely put more stock in tonight's result than Roy Hodgson and his men.

That said, there'll be a sell-out crowd in attendance and both sets of supporters will be equally desperate to get one over the opposition tonight, no matter how the players themselves may view the fixture.

Team-wise, the most interesting selection is Wayne Rooney, due to the rumbling saga surrounding his future at Manchester United. Rooney spectacularly proved his fitness in training while the gathered media looked on - he hit shots from all angles and looked very impressive in spite of new United manager David Moyes insisting that Rooney has been injured for the last few weeks. He certainly appeared in good nick in the run-up to tonight's clash and duly starts for England.

Another exciting development for England is the return to fitness of Arsenal star Jack Wilshere. The young midfielder has the hopes and dreams of a nation firmly resting on his shoulders and it'll be pleasing for all connected to see him back in the side.

Scotland arrive with a lot of spirit and determination, but sadly lacking in the world-class talent that they once produced regularly. Many of the starters tonight play their football in the second-flight Football League Championship south of the border, while Kenny Miller of the MLS leads the front-line.

The away team are up against it, but will take heart from the memory of Don Hutchison firing the Scots to victory on their last Wembley visit in November 1999.

It promises to be an intriguing tie, but how seriously England will take the friendly remains to be seen, especially with the FA Premier League season opener just three days away. The hope remains that both sets of players will give everything in order to put on a show for supporters, but also to breathe new life into a rivalry that has faltered in recent years.

A Scotland win could be on the cards if the English aren't prepared to battle for the victory - they must guard against complacency to cut out the possibility of an embarrassing home defeat.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Facebook.com/DLWSports

Waddle: The Marseille Years

By David Lee Wheatley

 

Fed up of the drudgery of English football in the 80's, Chris Waddle decided to follow compatriot and friend Glenn Hoddle to France through a £4.25m switch from Tottenham Hotspur to Marseille.

 

Hoddle had already spent two seasons in Ligue 1 at Monaco, helping them win the title in his first campaign with the Monte Carlo club.

 

English sides were suffering badly following the expulsion from European club football imposed due to the Heysel disaster and many top home-based internationals wished to see what that world had to offer.

 

Marseille's move for England winger Waddle made him the third most-expensive footballer on record at the time of his move in 1989 and many observers wondered if the Spurs man was worth the money.

 

The Gateshead-born star answered his critics in emphatic fashion thanks to his highly impressive performances in the white-and-blue of l'OM. The fans at the Stade Vélodrome took the Geordie to their hearts instantly, as Waddle was christened Le Magicien following the revelation that he watched videotapes of illusionist Paul Daniels to combat homesickness, but also with several dashing displays on the left wing!

 

During his fruitful three-year stay on the south of France, Marseille stormed to three successive league championship retentions, having grabbed the trophy from Hoddle's Monaco the season before Waddle's arrival.

 

At international level, the former Newcastle United wizard appeared rejuvenated by his first campaign in France when arriving at Italia '90 for the World Cup finals. Waddle played at the pinnacle of his powers in England's run to the semi-finals, but West Germany dumped them out on penalties; Stuart Pearce and Waddle himself the culprits missing their kicks.

 

Back at club level, he led Marseille to the European Cup final in 1991, which took place in Bari. Unfortunately, it was more penalty heartbreak in Italy for the England man with Red Star Belgrade the victors in another shoot-out. Mercifully, Waddle didn't take a penalty on that occasion, but felt the devastation of the loss all the same.

 

That third Ligue 1 title of his Marseille era came in 1992, before Sheffield Wednesday offered him a route back to the English top-flight. He ended with 22 league goals from 107 appearances, plus a further 7 goals in other competitions coming out of 42 domestic and European Cup games.

 

He later described the differences between the English and French styles of football when explaining that in England he was expected to run 'up-and-down, up-and-down', yet across in France he was classed an all-out attacker and that was his only job. It seemed a liberating experience for Waddle allowing him to perform at his full potential, while assisting him with the avoidance of burn-out and exhaustion during and after matches.

 

Le Magicien left an indelible mark on the fanatical support in Marseille, too, as he got voted into second place of all-time Marseille players behind legendary former team-mate and captain Jean-Pierre Papin in celebration of the club's Centenary of 1998.

 

After an initially daunting journey of discovery in a foreign land, what a fantastic legacy to leave behind.

 

Twitter: @davewh1980

Facebook.com/DLWSports 

 

   

 

 

Over to you England

By David Lee Wheatley

On the back of phenomenal British sporting success during the summer of 2012 and another promising year shaping up this time around, can the England national football team finally make their fans proud by going further than the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil to provide a third memorable summer in a row?

The watching public witnessed countless golden triumphs at the 2012 London Olympics and Paralympics, the wonderful comeback win by the European Ryder Cup team at Medinah, Rory McIlroy taking the PGA Championship for his first golfing major, Chelsea claiming the Champions League trophy against all odds, Bradley Wiggins becoming the first-ever Briton to win the Tour de France and Andy Murray rounding it all off in fine style with his opening Grand Slam tournament triumph at the US Open in New York.

Following that was always going to tough, but the Brits are giving it a good go; Justin Rose won the US Open golf tournament to join the major-winning club, while Andy Murray became the first man from these shores to win Wimbledon since Fred Perry 77 years prior. In rugby union, the British and Irish Lions snapped a demoralising run of series losses with a first tour victory since 1997, beating Australia 2-1 with a comprehensive score advantage in the deciding test.

Meanwhile, Chris Froome is well-placed to replicate Wiggins’ success at the Tour de France. He currently holds the yellow jersey as the General Classification leader and is clear favourite to claim victory. On top of that, England hold all the cards in the first Ashes test against Australia at Trent Bridge and look almost certain to go up 1-0 in the series.

It stands to reason that all of that success should inspire an England football team that has repeatedly failed to get beyond the quarter-finals in five of the last six major tournaments, with the odd one out occurring when they didn’t even qualify for Euro 2008. However, after so many previous disappointments, can England drag themselves out of the mire to put the country’s football team back amongst the world’s best?

Roy Hodgson still doesn’t seem to know his best formation or line-up, which are issues that need addressing immediately. There are four qualification matches remaining, three of which are at home, and if England win the lot they guarantee their spot at Brazil 2014. Ukraine away appears the most difficult remaining challenge, but if Hodgson’s boys can rise to the task then at least we can look forward to seeing the team perform at the tournament proper.

Hodgson’s options include some interesting young players coming through the ranks, who could all potentially provide reasons for optimism should the Three Lions seal their place at the competition. However, the one-dimensional nature of some of the team’s showings under the former Fulham and Switzerland boss have been less-than-impressive.

As usual, the chances of a second World Cup victory 48 years after the first will be hyped up by sections of the media in the run-up to the start of the competition in South America, but realistic hope is largely redundant.

It would be a massive surprise if England made it to the last four or beyond, but if anything can assist in the international side’s quest for the Holy Grail, it has be the inspiration that can be gleaned from the fabulous achievements across a plethora of sports by British sportsmen and sportswomen in recent times.

Come on England; give your supporters something to cheer about!