change of plan - columbia look good. lets win the group !!!
Originally Posted by: David M Porter
BBC also reporting Buffon likely to miss the game and also that Italy will play with 3 centre backs. If we can get past their wing-backs we could get at them with our attacking diamond of Sturridge, Rooney, Lallana, and A.N.Other.
I fully believe Hodgson will set out with a cautious team, and bring on some legs post 60 minutes to go at the Italian defence. Key questions will be how will he play against Pirlo, and which Balotelli will turn up (the latter could be said for Rooney too)?
What has impressed me more than anything else has been how little controversy there has been before this World Cup. No reports of squad disharmony or incriminating acts by one of the players; they all seem to be united and at least indications are they are wanting to play. Really, no-one has given the media a bone to chew on. Expectations are balanced by the fans, and I am genuinely excited to watch the game. If we go out there and play well, even in defeat, I think no one can complain, and at least everyone involved in the English setup can carry that forward in their careers. Players like Barkley and Sterling are the future of english football, a good experience in Brazil and no slamming by the media will set them up well.
I think I will head down to the British pub here in Santa Monica and watch the game around some ex-pats. Ironically, my friend and neighbour (a German) will join me to watch the game; he's cheering on England.
Originally Posted by: Medlock Vale Weather