Football International Match Preview: England versus France
The international game on November the 17th has many football fans confused as to why a friendly should take place at such a crucial time in the middle of club football season. Samir Nasri, the Arsenal and French midfielder let his views be known
to “The Guardian” on November the 15th, two days before the match, complaining that “It’s not an ideal time to be playing this game.” He went on to say though, that he would not miss the opportunity of participating in such a game.
Previous international mid-season friendles have not attracted as much attention as the one to take place this evening at Wembley. One of the reasons perhaps is the old-age rivalry between England and France. French manager, Laurent Blanc issued a perhaps
good natured statement to the French press, claiming that the English “don’t like us too much”. England have not beaten France in 13 years (since 1997) and in the last game played between the two sides, it was France who emerged triumphant with a 0-2 victory
at Wembley.
Critics and fans argue that both the opponents will try to use this game to their advantage, as much as possible because both the neighbours did not fare well in the 2010 World Cup. Fabio Capello, the England team’s manager has come under constant media
scrutiny in the build up to today’s game. Fans are hoping that this match will prove to be a turning point in England’s dismal fortune-of-late.
Laurent Blanc has off-the-field issues to deal with. Reports that the Les Bleus football association has had trouble with the players and there is a division of opinions on how to allocate pay-bonuses. Blanc has tried his best to put the rumours at rest,
by declaring that an arrangement and agreement has been reached, but his claim holds little weight with no official statement being issued by the French Football Association.
Capello himself has not given many statements to the press, a sharp contrast to the daily suggestions that players, ex-players and managers have felt the need to impart on the Italian. Fans and players alike, feel that this is the perfect opportunity for
the young English talent, that is so visible in the English Premier League matches that take place week in and week out, to finally step up onto the international stage.
Spotlight on Carrol:
Controversial figure, Andy Carroll made the news when he admitted to an assault charge. In the light of this news, Capello said that “Carroll must improve in his personal life.” The 21-year-old striker has been included by Fabio in the team for England,
thus making it his first appearance for the country. The Newcastle United player has slotted in 7 goals for his club this season and many argue his top-performance should be noted by the manager and has rightly-so been issued a place in the team.
England internationals Joey Barton and Rio Ferdinand have also backed Carroll to shine, with Manchester United player Ferdinand calling Carroll a “real talent.” Alan Shearer has also supported the decision of including him in the squad by explaining that
at the moment nobody is scoring more goals or playing better than the striker.
Injury woes:
The games on Sunday in the Premier League saw some surprising results and detrimental injuries done to England squad regulars. John Terry, Ashley Cole and Gabriel Agbonlahor are the latest players to pull out from the match this evening. Their replacements
are said to be Stephen Warnock, Gary Cahill and Carlton Cole. Arsenal player Jack Wilsher and Chelsea’s Frank Lampard are also not fit to face the French.
Their rumoured replacements will perhaps be Micah Richards and Chris Smalling. Sunderland player, Jordan Henderson will also make his debut against the Les Bleus. A likely starting eleven for the Three Lions may feature Hart, Richards, Ferdinand, Jagielka,
Gibbs, Milner, Gerrard, Barry, Henderson, Walcott and Carroll.
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