It has been a long time coming - 1966 was not supposed to be the only time England won the World Cup, was it?
That was a great showpiece at the time, and a romantic story. Sure playing most of their matches at Wembley was a great help, but it was a good team, and Ramsay was the right manager for the job, at that time.
The manager plays a critical role in any winning team, but he must have the players to coach also. Switzerland have a great manager - a double champions league winner in Hitzfield - but the squad is probably going to limit their success. On the other hand Maradona has the players, but can he manage?
Capello did secure 2 La Liga titles in Spain, and has great club pedigree. England virtually sailed through qualifying it it true, but the seabed is littered with great 'qualifying' teams, that failed to perform on the big stage.
A good start is important, but probably not critical (see Italy for proof of slow beginnings and world cup winning medals). It is important to build up momentum while avoiding disasters - thinking of the USA here. The team that grows during the tournament, and does not raise immediate expectations too high will succeed best. England need a steady start, get through the group without too much panic, and then it becomes a cup match competition.
They do have the players, individually at least, and he is a good manager - but they will also need good luck, and the right public support to make it all the way. I just feel there are more worthy teams, and one of them is bound to shine more brightly. Enjoy a fascinating competition, full of surprises and hopefully great football, whoever wins.
Alan Sedgwick is a freelance writer. Get your kids the national team kits at [http://soccergearforkids.com]
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