NMH
Banned
I know that unlike the other players in the England squad, he hasn't kicked a ball in anger for three months - shouldn't THAT be enough on its own to rule him out of International football ?
Not sure what you're getting at here. Rooney and Gerrard have underperformed, absolutely no question. And I'd have no problem if Capello recognised that and didn't select them for the starting lineup (although obviously I'd be amazed if they were omitted from the squad). But they have at least been playing regularly week in, week out in a hugely competative league. How can Beckham possibly be selected on merit for next weeks game ? Based on what ? Something he did last year ? Something he did a couple of years ago ?
Beckhams selection would defy logic. Yes it panders to the glitzy side of things, the showman, the global icon being handed (not earning, being handed) his 100th cap. But in pure footballing terms, there is no reason why Beckham should take the place of someone else in Englands midfield next week.
So, which 'someone else'?
It's been pretty-much recognized that SWP is the right-sider for the job (it certainly isn't Hargreaves). We need Richards and SWP at the same time, to try to fulfill what Beckham does, and neither of those players can deliver a ball in the air, make pinpoint passes from distance, or take control of free-kicks.
Okay, so say we don't actually want to play that way any more, and a winger who can swing a ball into the middle at the worst place for keepers isn't required in the 'NEW England' (kinda takes away most of what Crouch does best, as well!).
So...erm.... play Micah Richards as a midfielder, keeping Campbell and Ferdinand at the back, SWP or Agbonlahor ahead of MR, and that's the right side taken care of.
Play Crouch? Maybe not. Rooney alongside/just in front of Gerrard in the middle, Carrick behind him. Left side, from Shorey, Barry, Ashley Young, Joe Cole.
GK; James.
Jenas, Crouch, Ledley King, Lampard, Ashton, Hargreaves, Green or Robinson possibles on the bench.