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Well, after the Croatia match the obvious answer is Capello. By a country mile. Still, at MD towers we simply
believe that he's taken an early lead, it's a marathon not a sprint when it comes to online carping. Yet, some
closer analysis shows that there was a convergence of thinking between FC and MD in the run up to the September
fixtures. And that we don't look as stupid as we might first appear. Probably. Anyway lets look at the points we
raised before the `Miracle of Zagreb' as it hasn't come to be known.
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| Contention Number 1: Wayne Rooney may have to be dropped |
Rooney wasn't dropped and supplied his best performance in an England shirt since the Argentina friendly in 2005. Ok, it makes us look a little silly at first glance but the fact still remains that Rooney has now scored 3 competitive goals in the last 4 and a bit years. The crucial factor though behind Rooney's renaissance was surely the presence of both Emile Heskey and Theo Walcott. Heskey, in particular provided a muscular outlet for England's attacks which had been completely lacking in previous matches. Our view was the Rooney, playing behind a big centre forward, would be at his most effective and it was proved correct. He wasn't stranded alone up front, nor was he behind a small goal poacher like Defoe as in previous fixtures. We sincerely hope that this will be the start of the next phase of Rooney's international career. One where he puts behind him the frustrations of Germany and the McClaren era to be that brooding, destructive presence he was in that glorious, yet brief, summer of 2004.
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| Contention Number 2: Micah Richards not Wes Brown at right back |
Brown had possibly his best game for England in Zagreb so this looks like another point for FC. Brown was defensively outstanding in locking down Croatia's left sided attacking threat and supported Walcott on the right where possible. As for Richards, he is playing moderately for City at centre half. Injury has forced him out of the Wales U21 play off ties. His stock is plainly reducing in Fabio's mind. Yet, the feeling persists that he would develop into an awesome threat down the right if he was playing there for his club. Richards athleticism and speed makes him a potential asset as a marauding full back. Centre half simply does not give him the full reign of his natural gifts. It is entirely understandable that he is drifting from FC's thoughts, yet he really should retain a squad place ahead of the limited Glen Johnson. It would also help if Mark Hughes picked him where he can do most damage. A right side of Richards and Shaun Wright-Phillips would be one of the best in the country.
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| Contention Number 3: Two holding midfielders are needed |
And Fabio agrees. In Zagreb he kept faith with Barry and asked Lampard to play a more defensive role alongside. This provided the basis for Walcott, Cole/Jenas and Rooney to buzz effectively behind Big Emile. This more than anything was the foundation of England's success. A stronger defensive platform repelled the early home attacks and the pair gradually swung the match our way enabling Walcott to complete the heroics in front of goal. Against weaker opposition, two players in the holding role will be unnecessary but these two, especially Lampard, can supplement attacks very effectively. It was seriously doubted whether Lampard could perform defensively, but clearly he can. It can only be hoped that Fabio doesn't bring Gerrard back, drop Barry and start that damnable debate all over. Lampard is the man in possession. Drop Gerrard and have done!
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| Contention Number 4: David James is an accident waiting to happen. |
Nothing has happened in the last month to alter this opinion. James has had a very ropey run of form in the last month, conceding 4 to Chelsea and 6 to Manchester City in the space of a few days. Even in Pompey's run of victories he has looked wobbly and uncomfortable. His handling in Zagreb was far from perfect, though no major gaffes occurred. England desperately need a Plan B in goal and the lack of clarity as to who is the number two is worrying.
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| Contention Number 5: Beckham simply has to go. |
Still our banker. What is his purpose? Jermaine Jenas' bag carrier? A great servant in the past, his time is gone. It is time to put this one to bed Fabio.
So far then Fabio is whupping our limey asses. Long may it continue. We're still right about James and Beckham though.
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Article Keywords: Opening Nights for England Football Boss - Starting matches for New England Soccer Managers
First Game for England Gaffer - Who knows more than Fabio Capello ?
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Who Knows Best ? Midfield Dynamo or Fabio Capello ? Part 2