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It’s one day until the big kick-off. England fans have had to wait four years to see their team in a competitive tournament again after the abysmal no-show at Euro 2008. However, these four years have seen new blood in the England camp, starting managerially with Capello’s introduction as manager and his back room staff, and the inclusion of promising players such as Aaron Lennon and Joe Hart in the squad pushing for a first team place along with reborn and recalled Jamie Carragher and Ledley King. There’s optimism amongst fans; expectant of the country’s ’golden generation’ – desperate for success having been starved of a major trophy since England’s solitary World Cup win way back in 1966. And nothing has quashed their optimism. David Beckham’s injury, Gareth Barry’s injury, Rio Ferdinand’s injury. John Terry’s off the field misdemeanors and Wayne Bridge’s subsequent retirement from the international scene. Cheryl Cole divorcing Ashley. Nothing has yet stopped England fans believing that this is their year and Capello’s men have a maximum of seven games on the World’s biggest stage to prove that the fans have been right to keep the faith: let the games begin.
My top five pre-World Cup bets with Paddy Power:
1. Diego Milito of Argentina to be top scorer – 28/1
2. John Terry to miss the crucial penalty if England are eliminated on penalties – 18/1
3. England to win the World Cup – 15/2
4. Robin van Persie to get most assists during the tournament – 20/1
5. England to play Holland in the final – 45/1
My World Cup predictions:
Winners – Spain
Top scorer – Diego Milito
Player of the Tournament – Iker Casillas
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