Pre World Cup

Well, that was another case of, 'right result; crap performance.' It's one of those Ying/Yang moments. You rarely get one without the other. Unless of course you're Barcelona.

England won 3-1 against a fairly decent side, in Mexico, but as always with England, we couldn't win convincingly. It seems since qualification, we're showing all the conviction of Sol Campbell's move to Notts County.

At the end of the day, we've got the result. If we win every World Cup game 3-1, but only give mediocre performances, I'll be happy. And I'm sure that the English support won't be moaning too much. (Although knowing us we'll find something to moan about: "It's too hot in this Beer Garden to watch the match.") We're winning games, and that's what wins you a World Cup. Look at the Italians last time. They were dreadful to watch. They really were. They have all the flair of Steve Davis, wearing a green waistcoat instead of black. But they won the big one. So is it really all doom and gloom?

Personally, I'd have to say that against Mexico our best players weren't playing. Fat Frank, JT (who's got to start playing well soon right? Between June and July will do me), and Cashley; what a player he is. The only man to consecutively shackle the gelled tumbler, (thanks Robbo). Watching young Leighton try to fill his boots was like watching a dog chew a Fruit Pastle - too much of a task, too little ability. With those three back, who are all double winners this year, then we have a much stronger outfit.

I think our whole campaign comes down to balance. The big scouse lad is washed up on the left hand side. He's another one whose had a dismal campaign, but having so much natural ability surely he can turn it round too. He has to play off the Lil Scouse lad upfront, because they not only know how to rob a car wheel, but they're the best two we've got. Crouch, Heskey, Bent and Defoe all aren't really cutting the Horse-raddish. Then that leaves Lampard, and defensive midfielder, with two wingers. My pick being Adam Johnson and Theo Walcott.

There are a lot of positives, and although we may not have the squad strength of other nations, we're in with a bloody good shout.

The Black Country Phrophet's 11 to start against USA:
Green.
Johnson, Terry, Ferdinand, Cole.
Walcott, Lampard, Other, Johnson.
Gerrard, Rooney.