England’s Brewing Defensive Crisis
With England’s World Cup qualification a done deal, every game between now and June is an opportunity for Fabio Capello to fine-tune his starting XI. Some of the biggest questions have been pondered for many months now: Who should partner Wayne Rooney up front? Where should Steven Gerrard play? Who should we put between the sticks? But one other issue is rearing its head and it could become the most critical: Who is England’s third-choice centre-half? The question is becoming increasingly – and worryingly – relevant with Rio Ferdinand pulling extended duty on the sidelines and John Terry scheduled to sustain a long-term injury at least once a season. (Although JT would probably still find a way onto the team sheet even with a broken leg.) Where center half was once England’s deepest position, the current crop of reserves are starting to look like a very serious liability.
The Contenders
Matthew Upson: At the top of the list only by default. But can you honestly imagine Upson at the heart of defence in an England v. Brazil final? Neither can we – and that’s the problem.
Wes Brown: Provides consistently assured displays, but nothing more than that. Probably Capello’s cover for right-back, but if things get dicey, he’d be moved into the middle.
Joleon Lescott: Not even Manchester City’s millions can mask the fact that he is no more than a decent defender. Definitely vulnerable to being overtaken on the list.
Gary Cahill: Showing some good performances this season, but needs to secure a move in January to one of the top-level sides if he has any hope of making the plane to South Africa.
Phil Jagielka: Needs to get fit again, quickly. If he does, who knows?
Jonathan Woodgate: The former “galactico” might be in with a shout – except that he’s perpetually injured. And even if he does get fit, is he really worth the risk?
Ledley King: See Jonathan Woodgate.
The Longshot
Sol Campbell: Unemployed, out of shape, and about four years past his sell-by date. Other than that, he’s a perfect candidate.
Lack of defensive cover has seen Capello limbering up on the sidelines
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not only now, its like this from long time..