How we will fare at the World cup will save for another day, lets just talk about last nights performance.
We actually played quite well and were decent to watch, especially first half. The past two games have definitely being a lot more enjoyable than what we have been used to and I do believe that we have a good chance of continuing in the same vain and we can actually look forward to watching England again. There is more to come I think........
The star performers last night were Rooney and Townsend for me.
Rooney has really stepped up to the plate recently and I think its just the sheer pressure on him in in particular that has effected him in the past, whereas last night in particular he really looked like the experienced head and brought the team up a level in my eyes. I would say he is the only World class player of present in the squad in terms that they could easily fit into the elite clubs of world football right now. Gerrard has gone down a couple of levels and is not quite what he was but still crucial. Townsend just carried on from Friday and arguably looked even more dangerous.
Sturridge disappointed me a lot in both games, suppose we say it about a lot but he didn't look as half as much as a threat and on the ball as he does for Liverpool. Even when he didn't have it he just looked really laboured and there were a few times where the runs for the striker he is for Liverpool were right there and he just held his position. The poster above mentioned Berahino which I am delighte he got the goals for the U21's but it amazes me Defoe just doesn't get the chances. I still think Sturridge can come good but Defoe just seems to make up the numbers. I've always wanted Rooney and Defoe partnership but I doubt he will get a good enough chance which is a shame for him really, possibly his lack of Premier football at Spurs his costing him
Gerrard seems to be getting a lot of praise, I don't think he was that good. On several occasions he gave the ball away with a poor first touch and a sloppy pass, a few times to the big dangerman Lewandowski as well. As for the corner which led to the counter attack, I will defend him as if you look at it I think one of the two centre backs for us (not sure which one) was very close to getting a powerful header on it, its the fact we left plenty of open space on our right that we struggled with that one. As I have said, he wasn't at his best but I still think he warrants that place in the team as his goal typifies what he is all about and what he can bring. Strangely, Gerrard does look more suited for England at the moment, than Lampard. Whilst for club, Lampard looks to have the edge.
So his place his almost nailed on, its just finding the partner. Wilshere can hopefully have a good season and recover from a bit of a niggling start after showing real class last year, he would probably be my choice as long as he can re discover around the level he is capable of. Carrick did quite well last night but I am much more excited to see how Barkely does this season, he perhaps could sneak in just like Townsend. Been excellent so far this season, potential to form a great partnership with Rooney as well I reckon.
Defensively, its still a bit hmmm.........
Left back is great, we have the attacking threat of Baines and I would still say the better more balanced option of Cole. Baines has probably done enough to hang on to the spot for now but I saw enough to say Cole is still the better player.
Jag and Cahill are looking great for club and Cahill has come on leaps and bounds individually for club and country in my eyes. The partnership still looks suspect and there doesn't look to be that much challengers..... perhaps Dawson.
Right back, everyone gets excited over Walker and Johnson attacking wise but defensively they are probably the weakest link we have which is not ideal considering their position. Like a few others Micah Richards Is my favourite, just needs to recover from his injury problems and get some game time Would be great for him to force his way into the squad at least after the trouble he has had which has really dented his progression.
Plus we have all the players that Don't ask me to choose luv has mentioned to come back, so overall I'm feeling a bit more positive with what we have and the potential depth we could have for a squad.
Lets not talk about the World Cup yet, im looking at the friendlies in November to see a few more of the lads given a chance.
Germany will be a great test and occasion for them all.
Delighted things are looking up for Roy, after my doubts he really got the team to produce in the pivotal final games.