England preparations for World Cup begin today against the Netherlands
England preparations for World Cup begin today against the Netherlands
England International friendly v. Netherlands
Venue: Amsterdam Arena, Amsterdam
Date: Wednesday, 12 August, 2009
Kick-off: 1945 BST
England have all but ensured their place in South Africa, but John Terry insists the players will not take Wednesday’s match in Amsterdam lightly.
“The ultimate prize is there. People could earn a place in the starting XI,” Terry told BBC Radio 5 live.
“It’s a friendly but we want to kick start from where we left off.”
England are 10 points clear at the top of Group Seven with 21 points and have won all seven of their qualifying games.
Terry also said: “It’s not just about this game - we’ll see how the season goes - but we’re looking to stay fit and get things right on the pitch.
"It’ll be an important year for everyone. Not only for the players in the squad but the young players and the players looking to cement themselves in the manager’s head.”
Fabio Capello also commented on his squad selection for the friendly. Steven Gerrard will miss the game as an injury precaution, and will be replaced by Aston Villa’s prized possession Ashley Young. The Italian manager insisted that players would have to play consistently in prominent roles for their club to be considered for England selection.
David Beckham is a prime example of Capello’s philosophy. Capello has stated that Beckham must return to playing at the highest level in Europe once the MLS season ends if he is to have any hope in joining the England squad in South Africa next summer.
“Firstly, Owen has to play with Manchester United. Always the door for all the players is open - for Michael Owen and all the players,” he told BBC Radio 5 live.
“I think Wilshere has to play with Arsenal. Not only with the second team. He needs experience and to play really important games.”
Gareth Barry has continued to claim that his summer move from Aston Villa was motivated by a desire to cement his own place in England’s midfield, despite the Villa faithful insisting Barry left because of Manchester City’s unmatchable wealth.
“When you spend 12 years at a club it’s always a big decision to leave, but hopefully my decision can be backed up by the way we play this year,” he said.
“The World Cup was in the back of my mind and I’m confident I can play a big part for Man City and go into the World Cup having hopefully qualified with a lot of confidence.”
Surely England supporters will hope only the best of all their players as they try to emulate their World Cup qualifying form against a strong Netherlands side.
