After falling flat at Euro 2004 and the 2006 Soccer World Cup, this might be the chance of international silverware for some of the most well-known faces in the world game.
The appointment of Fabio Capello as coach appears to have brought fresh vigour to the England setup. And with the tournament due to take place in the South African winter, weather conditions should suit the English players.
The road to South Africa
Following the disappointment of missing out on a place at Euro 2008, England bounced back in emphatic fashion to qualify for South Africa. Indeed, they stormed to no fewer than nine wins from ten Group 6 games, scoring a European Zone high of 34 goals in the process, with their only defeat coming in Ukraine with qualification already secured.
Star players
Leading from the front in terms of both goals and commitment is Wayne Rooney, who netted nine times during qualifying. Also chipping in were midfield duo Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, who hit four and three goals respectively.
The coach
Winner of Series A with AC Milan, AS Roma and Juventus, as well as a two-time La Liga champion at Real Madrid, Capello wasted little time in instilling a renewed work ethic and squad spirit in an England squad packed with big-name stars. Qualification for South Africa 2010 with two games to spare and a solitary competitive defeat speak volumes for Capello’s impact.
Facts
- The 1-0 loss in Ukraine on 10 October 2009 ended a run of ten consecutive victories in Soccer World Cup qualification, which England had begun with a 1-0 win over Austria in Manchester on 8 October 2005.
- England’s leading scorer in qualifying, Wayne Rooney, was at his most dangerous between the 72nd and 76th minutes of play, during which period he scored no fewer than four times. — Fifa