Can't disagree with that. We are lucky we have so many class centre backs! We can pretty much mix and match. Jagielka is great as well. In fact my first choice pairing would probably Jagielka and Lescott now you mention it, they were so good against spain
Looking at things from a non-English perspective, I think the general lack of confidence in England to do well, and with all the injuries, and Rooney missing the first couple of games, takes all the pressure off. They go into the tournament as underdogs, and if I was England manager, I`d be fostering that bunker mentallity. I think England could have a better tournament than they have had for years. Hodgson will be pointing out to his players, I suspect, that in 3 games against Barca and Bayern, Chelsea totalled about 6 atttempts to the oppositions 60 on goal, and still prevailled - no one fancied Chelsea, they had injuries and suspensions, and still did it.
Ok how has richards not been brought in, should have started and now he brings in Kelly? What? Richards is so much better than kelly...
I would have put him before any other right back but maybe as cover for the middle of our defence Roy thinks Kelly is a safer option.
I think the Netherlands will win it- they have only improved since the World Cup; while Spain have slightly declined. With Van Persie up-front, of course they stand a chance. On another note- have you signed Jay Rodriguez yet ?? Sounds like he could form an outstanding partnership in the Prem with Sharp, Lallana and/or Lambert. I'm surprised none of them were in contention for the England squad- particuarly Lambert
Pompey Fan London I 'm surprised with the injury list seeming to grow by the day that Lallana's name hasn't been mentioned. Seeing that the likes of Henderson have not be spectaular for Liverpool this season, I am surprised that Adam Lallana's name has not been mentioned especially as he has been in form for Saints for two seasons now. Seeing that the third choice keeper has been with Cheltenham for the season and the England squad includes players yo have not played regularly for their clubs, I am a bit surprised that Lallana is off most pundit's lists. Lambert could do a job but I think he would be lucky to make an impression that is good enough to replace Danny Welbeck or Rooney.
Richards and Carrick both refused to be on standby. If they don't want the chance to impress then **** em both. In international football, you have to take the chances you get to challenge the incumbant. At RB, that's Glen Johnson and since he's a bit ****, Richards should be embracing his chance when it goes begging. Carrick will know that England are pretty light of quality in the middle and probably would have been picked over Henderson had it not been for his own arrogance. Rewards come to those that take their chances and fight for their places, not those that make demands and throw a wobbler when they aren't granted. Nigel Adkins doesn't like players with a huge sense of entitlement and I don't think Roy Hodgson should either. Whether you agree with Kelly's inclusion or not, Hodgson giving way to these demands will forever label him a soft touch and players will walk all over him.
Where was it said Richards refused to be back up?. On twitter he hasn't had a moan just been cheering the team on.
Any predictions for today? Can see Poland-Greece as being a draw, but i think Russia might just sneak it Thoughts?
I 've pencilled in my predictions and I've reached the conclusion of a Germany v Holland final with Germany winning it. England to reach the semis and get beaten by Holland by beating Spain in the QFs.
Ireland / England final. England to win 8-0, drop goal by Carroll starting scoring off. Robbie Keane sent off after a late grapple tackle.
Thanks - it's nice to be appreciated. I was going to put 12-0 but didn't want to get my hopes up too much. I'm just glad South Africa aren't in it!
