England

Is this the year England finally win the World Cup? Fabio Capello’s England side have gone full circle since their poor Euro 2008 qualifying campaign and now with youngsters like Aaron Lennon and Theo Walcott coming through to play alongside the undoubtedly talented established players like Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, John Terry and Wayne Rooney, England have a real chance of glory.

The one question mark that still remains over the side that haven’t won the World Cup since that famous day in 1966 is can the defence hold out?

England still remain susceptible to letting in goals and Rio Ferdinand’s injury problems, Glen Johnson’s defensive lapses and John Terry's patchy form could be what stops them from going the whole way in South Africa.

Star Man - Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney is older wiser and ready to win. Rooney's petulant sending off in the 2006 World Cup against Portugal was part of the reason that England suffered penalty heart break (again) and he will want to banish the ghosts of Gelsenkirchen by leading England to glory in South Africa.

Playing for Manchester United under the stewardship of Sir Alex Ferguson, Rooney has matured an unbelievable amount. Less prone to a tantrum he will be looking to continue his fantastic club form for country.

The only question that can remain about Rooney's participation in South Africa is just who will he play alongside but that can only be answered by Fabio Capello.

The right decision could see Rooney lifting the World Cup the wrong one and England could be left rueing what could have been.

Coach - Fabio Capello

After the wally with the brolly we've now got an Italian stallion to lead our country into the World Cup.

Former AC Milan and Real Madrid manager Capello has turned England into a side who will be much feared and respected in South Africa.

Fantastic wins over a quality Croatian side and good performances in friendlies against Holland and Germany are going some way to prove that England have a solid chance to win the World Cup.

Capello's tactics and squad selections show him to favour those players who put their all into their performances rather than just picking the best players.

One to Watch - James Milner

James Milner has flourished this season for club side Aston Villa in 2009. Last season it was Ashley Young who appeared to be the key player for Villa but now Milner has taken up the reigns and his outstanding ability is now shining brightly for all to see.

Whether he is playing at left wing, right wing or central midfield, Milner has put in some fantastic performances and scored some vital goals.

Coach Fabio Capello already sees Milner as one of a talented foursome who can be future England heroes but Milner could come good ahead of all the rest in South Africa.

Odds to win - 11/2

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