With the 2010 World Cup finals well on the way, several of England’s players may be facing their last chance to win. The likes of David Beckham, David James, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Gareth Barry, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry and Ashley Cole will all be well into their thirties when the 2014 finals comes around in Brazil and it seems likely that few, if any, of the above will make that trip. Several of these players would feature in Englands greatest World Cup team.
Who will Fabio Capello looked to In order to replace his top players? Some likely replacements include…
Joe Hart (Manchester City, Goalkeeper) – Hart has enjoyed a superb season on loan at Birmingham and he deservedly forced his way into the squad as third choice keeper for the finals. However with James now nearing 40 and Green not altogether impressive, Hart may well find himself elevated to senior keeper role sooner rather than later, especially if he can start to force his way into the first team at Manchester City, or another big Premier League club. When he does, it may be some time before England are looking for a new number 1.
Kieran Gibbs (Arsenal, Defender) – Although Gibbs may have had a rough start to his career at Arsenal due to injury, his future looks bright. Gibbs, who has the astounding reputation of being able to play successfully anywhere on the left flank, will improve in years to come. I wouldn’t be too surprised if we see Gibbs on the bench with the national team in a few years.
Jonjo Shelvey (Liverpool, Midfielder) – Shelvey recently signed to Liverpool from Charlton, and the Reds feel that he could end up being a possible replacement for Steven Gerrard. At 17, Shelvey could probably use a couple years to rise through the ranks at Anfield, but once he does, he could follow in Gerrard’s footsteps and join the England national team.
Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea, Attacker) – Daniel Sturridge, Chelsea’s current attacker, was not able to fully stretch his wings under Anelka and Drogba’s fierce partnership, looks an enormously promising. Sturridge should become a consistent contributor for Chelsea next season and may well push hard to claim Anelka’s spot in Ancelotti’s side. Sturridge’s never-failing ability to make great goals could lead to an impressive role on Chelsea’s and England’s teams.
Connor Wickham (Ipswich Town, Attacker) – Not heard of him? The enormous talent is being linked to a Premiership giant and is only 17 years old. The striker has shown great improvement since he first began playing on the first team at Portman Road mere days after he turned sixteen. Watch for Wickham to join a big team with an even bigger price tag.
So, while this looks like being the final World Cup for many of Capello’s stars, it also heralds the start of an exciting future for many.
Tags: england soccer, soccer, World Cup