England squad announced today

I've never been fond of either Gary or Phil. I'd have called up the Chuckle brothers who would probably have replaced them perfectly.

Agree on Scott Parker but this squad shows he's playing it safe. Looking back over his tenure he has really nurtured the core of the team around these players. Joe Cole is too much of a gamble for me on the international stage but he's tried and tested him.

Astute selection from Mr Sony.

in midfield id have, (based on INTERNATIONAL form)

Beckham rw Hargreeves Lampard Gerrad(LW)

really? put Gerrard wide left? If its a diamond formation then probably yes. I guess Hargreaves can anchor the midfield?

I would have Scott Parker as the deep midfielder. Lampard and Gerrard should be starting based on superb club performances this season

Joe Cole out and Defoe in would be my suggestion

Hargreeves is a solid central midfielder but is versatile so he could play left or center, i just thought in the last game 1st half hargreeves looked awsome in the middle of the park. So fast and creative.

Cole Out: Parker In
Vassell Out: Defoe In

This is just the preliminary squad remember

against Sweden? Yeah I seem to recall he had a good game. He's been a bit inconsistent for England but excellent for Bayern.

I hope Ledley 'does' Vassell in training

I don't mind Cole staying in if we got shot of Butt or Neville

Hasn't thsi always been the argument? The step up to successful international football being a difficult one. McManaman being the first to spring to my mind. Reminds me of Joe Cole. Bridge and Cole for the starting left side positions.

I dont think he's been inconsistant at all?? Never Looses the ball and is always tracking back, fast going forward and he holds the midfield well. He hasnt realy been given that many starts.

From what i've seen of him for Bayern I've expected lots and sometimes he has failed to deliver! I've seen him run down blind alleys and put the odd pass astray. Seems to be improving with age though. If he was great everytime he played he would be starting by now?

and John Barnes?

Bridge and Cole

I reckon we'll be lucky to make it past the quarters. Squad just isn't strong enough to be champs

Thats my fave midfield.

I think we have a strong midfield and defence we need more forwards tho Owen & Smith are our best choice and of course James in Goal

Smith's not in the squad though mate..... :spangled:

Nice to see Dot Cotton made the squad!

Dot Cotton


Gary Neville

Best midfield has too have Becks, Scholes, Lampard and Gerrard in it.

As for the whole squad, France are going to get it right roond ye !!

Surely its the taking part that counts?

right for one whats all the crap about gary neville? most consistand right back in england over the last 10 years or so (maybe dixon can challenge)

and as for nicky butts comments......hes an outstandin midfielder, doesnt do anything flash but always does his job, everyone said the same in 2002 at the world cup, and wen gerrard got injured said that was game over for us, butt steped in and was englands player of the tournament and included in the world cup team of the tournament, parkers young has hardly played for england other than friendlys and done nothing in them when he has, so why pick him over a proven player with not just international experience but major tournaments experience.

ps phill neville i agree on, utter wank!