The nation ranked eleventh by FIFA and seventh by UEFA has come into the tournament following a tougher than expected qualification campaign. The joint oldest side (with Scotland) in the history of international football will be taking part in their fourteenth tournament overall.
England’s road to this tournament was anything but easy. They pipped Ukraine by one point to lay claim to top spot in qualification. Their group also consisted of Montenegro, Poland, Moldova and San Marino. England drew a total of four games.
Two of the draws came against Ukraine. The other two came against Montenegro and Poland, opponents England was expected to beat with ease. Had Ukraine not lost to Montenegro, England might have had to come through a very tough two-legged qualifying round into the World Cup.
Player to Watch:
Daniel Sturridge is the key man for England; he is coming into the tournament on the back of yet another impressive season at club level. The Liverpool attacker is deemed too selfish at times; his confidence levels cannot be doubted. He might turn out to be more important than Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney to England’s cause in this World Cup.
All About….Coach Hodgson!
Roy Hodgson had success at least in terms of results as head coach of Switzerland. He had a very good time at club level with Fulham. He led Fulham to a Europa League final. Hodgson though failed at Liverpool; thus, his critics are perhaps a tad more harsh than they should be when judging him in his current role. If Hodgson can land England the big trophy, he will go down in history as not just a good coach, but, rather, a great coach.
A Glance at the Roster:
England’s squad is obviously filled with talent. Wayne Rooney is one name which will be on everyone’s lips. Also, the old guard of the likes of Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard might be playing in their final World Cup. However, the English fans should be prepared to greet the current generation, the one consisting of the likes of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Sturridge and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. All in all, their performances might propel England further in the tournament than anyone expects.
TV Listings:
Surviving a tough group stage is vital for England; they have been placed with Uruguay, Costa Rica and Italy in Group D. England’s matches will be showed by ESPN and ESPN 3; for more information, visit the England team page here.
