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Showing posts with label Soccer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Soccer. Show all posts

Friday, June 18, 2010

England vs Algeria Preview


England will be looking to put a disappointing opening showing behind them when they face Algeria in their second World Cup 2010 game on Friday.

A 1-1 draw with the United States provided more questions than answers for the Three Lions and they know there is still much work to be done if they are to live up to their pre-tournament billing.

Victory over Algeria would go some way to appeasing a demanding public, and give them one foot in the knockout stages, but England have made a habit of doing things the hard way down the years.

If their showing against the USA is anything to go by, the 2010 World Cup could be heading in the same direction, as they allowed two priceless points to slip through their grasp.

Robert Green will have relived the horror of allowing Clint Dempsey's tame shot to trickle over the line a hundred times, while a number of others on show in Rustenburg are likely to have taken a long look at themselves.

A stuttering start, rather than a flying one, suggests changes could be on the cards when England arrive in Cape Town, but Fabio Capello has steadfastly refused to give any indication as to his selection thoughts.

Algeria could also decide to freshen things up for their second outing, with a 1-0 defeat to Slovenia in their opener doing little to inspire confidence.

The Africans endured a goalkeeping nightmare of their own in that contest and they too may decide to plump for a different last line of defence this time out.

They certainly need to raise their game considerably if they are to trouble England, while defeat would bring an abrupt end to their World Cup campaign and see them on the first plane home.

As mentioned, England face something of a selection dilemma heading into the game, with niggling knocks and a lack of adventure against America giving Capello food for thought.

The Italian is expected to back Green by giving him another opportunity to prove his worth between the sticks, but strong cases can be made for the involvement of either David James or Joe Hart.

In the back four, Ledley King will definitely be missing, having picked up a groin problem, meaning Jamie Carragher, Michael Dawson and Matthew Upson will battle it out for the right to partner John Terry.

Having seen James Milner and Shaun Wright-Phillips offer little down the left last time out, both could be forced to settle for a place on the bench.

With Gareth Barry back to full fitness and set to resume his holding role duties in midfield, Steven Gerrard is likely to be pushed out to the flanks.

Meanwhile, up front, Emile Heskey and Wayne Rooney proved to be a handful last Saturday and should be paired alongside each other once again.

With Algeria hardly blessed with world-class options in the keeping department, they are tipped to keep faith with Faouzi Chaouchi - despite his glaring error against Slovenia and a knee problem picked up in training.

The main issue for coach Rabah Saadane to address is how to bring the best out of his attacking talents, allowing them to test an England defence lacking in pace and movement.

Much will be expected of Wolfsburg ace Karim Ziani, as playmaker in chief, but he needs support from those around him if he is to influence proceedings.

One of those who will definitely not be offering a helping hand is Abdelkader Ghezzal, following his reckless sending off against Slovenia.

He lasted just 15 minutes of that contest upon entering the game as a second half substitute, with two needless bookings meaning he must serve a suspension.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

England's World Cup Squad of 23


World Cup news: Fabio Capello

Fabio Capello has named his final 23-man England World Cup squad with Theo Walcott's omission being the biggest shock.

England 23-man World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers:

Joe Hart, David James, Robert Green

Defenders:

Jamie Carragher, Ashley Cole, Rio Ferdinand, Glen Johnson, Ledley King, John Terry, Matthew Upson, Stephen Warnock

Midfielders:

Gareth Barry, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Aaron Lennon, James Milner, Shaun Wright-Phillips

Strikers:

Peter Crouch, Jermain Defoe, Emile Heskey, Wayne Rooney

Torres misses Spain training


World Cup news: Fernando Torres

Fernando Torres has missed training with the Spanish national team in preparation for their next friendly match against South Korea.

Vicente del Bosque and his medical staff is reluctant to force the Liverpool striker in the morning training session as Torres has not completely recovered from his knee operation that ruled him out of the last few weeks of the Barclays Premier League season.

The national team doctors felt that a double training session would be asking too much for the Spanish hitman.

Torres has previously assured that he will be 100% fit for Spain's opening World Cup match against Switzerland on 16 June.


World Cup news: Nemanja Vidic

Nemanja Vidic is looking forward to proving Serbia's unexpected defeat to New Zealand was a mere blip when they tackle Poland.

Serbia's preparations for the World Cup finals suffered a setback with their 1-0 loss to the All Whites in Klagenfurt on Saturday.

The defeat prompted angry scenes amongst the Serbian fans who had made the trip to Austria for the match, with Vidic having to ask them to calm down over the stadium's tannoy.

In the wake of the loss the Manchester United defender has maintained his appeasing role, claiming the defeat could actually help the players, with two more warm-up games to come against the Poles and then Cameroon on Saturday.

"Sometimes a defeat in the friendly matches can be more useful for the team than a routine victory," Vidic said.

"Our confidence is not shaken - on the contrary. Nothing in our plans has changed.

"There were some individual errors, starting from myself, but these games are to remove those errors.

"We have worked hard to qualify for the World Cup and believe the next two friendly matches will be better games.

"It remains our goal to reach the second round in South Africa."

Serbia's first game of the World Cup finals is against Ghana on June 13 before matches against Germany and Australia in Group D.

Serbia confirms final squad of 23


World Cup news: Serbia

Zeljko Brkic was the unlucky man to miss out as Serbia coach Radomir Antic trimmed his 24-man party down to the final 23 names who will make the trip to South Africa.

Antic had earlier cut Chelsea duo Slobodan Rajkovic and Nemanja Matic from his provisional squad of 30, while also omitting Ajax forward Miralem Sulejmani, PSV Eindhoven defender Jagos Vukovic, Partizan Belgrade midfielder Nemanja Tomic and Red Star Belgrade striker Dejan Lekic.

Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic and Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic will be expected to provide the solidity at the back while winger Milos Krasic of CSKA Moscow will aim to supply the chances for new Birmingham signing Nikola Zigic.

Serbia face Poland in a friendly in Austria, and are up against Germany, Australia and Ghana in World Cup Group D.

Serbia World Cup squad: Vladimir Stojkovic (Sporting Lisbon, Portugal), Bojan Isailovic (Zaglebie Lubin, Poland), Andjelko Djuricic (Uniao Leiria, Portugal); Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea, England), Antonio Rukavina (1860 Munich, Germany), Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United, England), Neven Subotic (Borussia Dortmund, Germany), Aleksandar Lukovic (Udinese, Italy), Ivan Obradovic (Real Zaragoza, Spain), Aleksandar Kolarov (Lazio, Italy); Dejan Stankovic (Inter Milan, Italy), Gojko Kacar (Hertha Berlin, Germany), Nenad Milijas (Wolves, England), Zdravko Kuzmanovic (Stuttgart, Germany), Radosav Petrovic (Partizan Belgrade), Milos Krasic (CSKA Moscow, Russia), Zoran Tosic (Manchester United, England) , Milos Ninkovic (Dynamo Kiev, Ukraine), Milan Jovanovic (Standard Liege, Belgium); Nikola Zigic (Birmingham, England), Marko Pantelic (Ajax, Holland), Danko Lazovic (Zenit St Petersburg, Russia), Dragan Mrdja (Vojvodina Novi Sad).

Greece confirm final squad of 23


World Cup news: Greece

Giourkas Seitaridis and Christos Patsatzoglou have proved their fitness to gain inclusion in Greece's 23-man World Cup squad.

German coach Otto Rehhagel had concerns over the pair, with former Porto defender Seitaridis playing just eight league games for Panathinaikos this season while a knee injury kept the versatile Patsatzoglou, who plays for Cypriot club Omonia Nicosia, out of the majority of the World Cup qualifying campaign.

The star of the show in qualifying was Fanis Gekas, with 10 goals, and he has been included in Rehhagel's squad as Greece go in search of their first points and goals in a World Cup finals in South Africa after three straight defeats in their previous finals appearance in 1994.

They face South Korea, Nigeria and Argentina in Group B, but first they will take on Paraguay in a warm-up match in Switzerland.

Greece World Cup squad: Michalis Sifakis (Aris Salonika), Alexandros Tzorvas (Panathinaikos), Kostas Chalkias (AEK Athens); Giourkas Seitaridis (Panathinaikos), Loukas Vyntra (Panathinaikos), Vangelis Moras (Bologna), Sokratis Papastathopoulos (Genoa), Sotirios Kyrgiakos (Liverpool), Avraam Papadopoulos (Olympiacos), Vassilis Torosidis (Olympiacos), Nikos Spiropoulos (Panathinaikos), Stelios Malezas (PAOK Salonika); Kostas Katsouranis (Panathinaikos), Alexandros Tziolis (Siena), Giorgos Karagounis (Panathinaikos), Sotiris Ninis (Panathinaikos), Christos Patsatzoglou (Omonia Nicosia), Sakis Prittas (Aris Salonika); Angelos Charisteas (Nurnberg), Dimitris Salpingidis (Panathinaikos), Pantelis Kapetanos (Steaua Bucharest), Fanis Gekas (Eintracht Frankfurt), Georgios Samaras (Celtic).

Slovakia confirm final squad of 23


World Cup news: Slovakia

Slovakia coach Vladimir Weiss has taken a calculated gamble by including a trio of players who are fighting to re-establish themselves after injury in his 23-man squad for the World Cup finals in South Africa.

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel has been picked as he continues his recovery from a foot injury, while strike duo Filip Holosko of Besiktas and Robert Vittek of Lille are both involved after coming back from a broken leg and a knee problem respectively.

"There are still question marks," Weiss said.

"In case of an injury anything can happen."

Weiss has included his highly-rated son, Vladimir junior, in his squad after some encouraging national team appearances during qualification and on loan with Bolton from Manchester City, while Napoli star Marek Hamsik was included as expected.

Slovakia World Cup squad: Jan Mucha (Legia Warsaw, Poland), Dusan Kuciak (Vaslui, Romania), Dusan Pernis (Dundee United, Scotland); Marek Cech (West Brom, England), Jan Durica (Hannover, Germany), Peter Pekarik (Wolfsburg, Germany), Martin Petras (Cesena, Italy), Kornel Salata (Slovan Bratislava), Martin Skrtel (Liverpool, England), Radoslav Zabavnik (Mainz, Germany); Marek Hamsik (Napoli, Italy), Kamil Kopunek (Spartak Trnava), Jan Kozak (Politehnica Timisoara, Romania), Juraj Kucka (Sparta Prague, Czech Republic), Marek Sapara (Ankaragucu, Turkey), Zdeno Strba (Xanthi, Greece), Miroslav Stoch (Chelsea, England), Vladimir Weiss (Manchester City); Filip Holosko (Besiktas, Turkey), Martin Jakubko (Saturn Moscow, Russia), Erik Jendrisek (Schalke, Germany), Stanislav Sestak (Bochum, Germany), Robert Vittek (Lille, France).

Japan confirm final squad of 23


World Cup news: Japan

Under-pressure Japan coach Takeshi Okada took few risks in naming his country's 23-man World Cup squad.

Europe-based quartet Makoto Hasebe, Keisuke Honda, Daisuke Matsui and Takayuki Morimoto have all been included alongside Shunsuke Nakamura and 2009 Asian player of the year Yasuhito Endo ahead of Japan's Group E opener against Cameroon on June 14.

Playmaker Nakamura is expected to be fit for Japan's final World Cup warm-up against the Ivory Coast on Friday after the former Celtic midfielder missed the defeat by England due to an ankle injury, but played 90 minutes of a practice match on Monday.

Okada, who was in charge for Japan's winless World Cup finals debut in France in 1998, received the backing of Japan Football Association president Motoaki Inukai following the one-sided 2-0 defeat to South Korea on May 24.

Domestic-based Japan sides also lost to South Korea in February's East Asian Championship and to a second-string Serbia in April, making Okada's stated target of reaching the semi-finals in South Africa look decidedly optimistic. However, the Blue Samurai produced a much-improved display in Sunday's 2-1 defeat by England in Austria.

Japan World Cup squad: Seigo Narazaki (Nagoya Grampus), Eiji Kawashima (Kawasaki Frontale), Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi (Jubilo Iwata); Yuji Nakazawa (Yokohama Marinos), Marcus Tulio Tanaka (Nagoya Grampus), Yuichi Komano (Jubilo Iwata), Daiki Iwamasa (Kashima Antlers), Yasuyuki Konno (FC Tokyo), Yuto Nagatomo (FC Tokyo), Atsuto Uchida (Kashima Antlers); Shunsuke Nakamura (Yokohama Marinos), Yasuhito Endo (Gamba Osaka), Kengo Nakamura (Kawasaki Frontale), Junichi Inamoto (Kawasaki Frontale), Yuki Abe (Urawa Red Diamonds), Makoto Hasebe (Wolfsburg, Germany), Keisuke Honda (CSKA Moscow, Russia), Daisuke Matsui (Grenoble, France); Shinji Okazaki (Shimizu S-Pulse), Keiji Tamada (Nagoya Grampus), Yasuhito Okubo (Vissel Kobe), Kisho Yano (Albirex Niigata), Takayuki Morimoto (Catania, Italy).

South Korea confirm their final 23


World Cup news: South Korea

Lee Dong-gook has been included in South Korea's 23-man World Cup squad with Lee Keun-ho, Shin Hyung-min and Koo Ja-cheol missing out.

Former Middlesbrough frontman Lee Dong-gook is set to miss South Korea's Group B opener against Greece due to a hamstring injury but has been included at the expense of Jubilo Iwata's Lee Keun-ho after Huh was assured the 31-year-old would be fit to face Argentina and Nigeria.

Oita Trinita midfielder Kim Bo-kyung, 20, has been included despite only making his international debut in January, with defender Kang Min-soo replacing Kwak Tae-hwi, who suffered a knee injury in Sunday's 1-0 defeat by Belarus.

As expected Manchester United's Park Ji-sung, Bolton's Lee Chung-yong, Monaco striker Park Chu-young and Celtic's Ki Sung-yong have all been included along with veteran forward Ahn Jung-hwan, who scored the winner as South Korea beat Italy en route to reaching the 2002 finals.

Coach Huh said: "We have three games and about three weeks. In my own way, I've thought about which members could play in the three games and contribute to the team."

Huh gets a final chance to look at his side against European champions Spain on Thursday before the June 12 opener against Greece.

South Korea World Cup squad: Kim Young-kwang (Ulsan), Lee Woon-jae (Suwon), Jung Sung-ryong (Seongnam); Kim Dong-jin (Ulsan), Kim Hyung-il (Pohang), Oh Beom-seok (Ulsan), Lee Young-pyo (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Lee Jung-soo (Kashima, Japan), Cha Doo-ri (Freiburg, Germany) Cho Yong-hyung (Jeju), Kang Min-soo (Suwon); Ki Sung-yong (Celtic, Scotland), Kim Bo-kyung (Oita, Japan), Kim Nam-il (Tomsk, Russia), Kim Jae-sung (Pohang), Kim Jung-woo (Gwangju), Lee Chung-yong (Bolton, England), Park Ji-sung (Manchester United, England); Park Chu-young (Monaco, France), Ahn Jung-hwan (Dalian, China), Lee Seung-ryul (Seoul), Yeom Ki-hun (Suwon), Lee Dong-gook (Jeonbuk).

Monday, May 31, 2010

Terry: Defence needs some work


Football News: England

John Terry believes England's ability to "keep it tight at the back" will have a massive bearing on their bid to win the World Cup.

Terry has confidence the forward power at coach Fabio Capello's disposal will always find the target despite the fact star man Wayne Rooney is on a run of just one goal in eight internationals.

And the Chelsea captain is confident the defence will come good in South Africa despite the concerns raised after the recent warm-up game against Mexico.

The Three Lions looked vulnerable during the first half against the central American team last week and conceded a sloppy goal in a 3-1 win.

The back four had more of an accustomed look about it in the final warm-up international against Japan in Graz on Sunday, with Terry reunited at the heart of the defence with Rio Ferdinand and left-back Ashley Cole back after a four game absence.

Glen Johnson did not have the best of games at right-back but Jamie Carragher looked more solid when he replaced his Liverpool team-mate for the second period.

Terry said: "The manager had stressed in the week that with the pace we have, the quality we have going forward, we're always going to create chances and score goals.

"It's up to us to keep it tight at the back. The goal we conceded against Mexico, and a couple of set-plays, are things we'll have to work on.

"But if we can keep it tight at the back, then we've got enough quality going forward which means we can always get a goal."

He added: "It's been a while since we've played together as a back four. Obviously I know Ashley and also Johnson from his Chelsea days, but myself and Rio have got a good understanding so when we slot in alongside each other, we know each other's game well enough.

"Jamie Carragher came on during the second half and did well, and I think as a back four or back five we looked solid."

Terry felt he benefited from his first game since the FA Cup final win over Portsmouth more than a fortnight ago.

He said: "It was a good run-out, especially after I missed the last game. But it was good for the whole squad, good for the manager to try new players and formations.

"In the last couple of games we didn't start as well as we could have done but it's eventually been good enough to win because late on you saw the fitness come into account. We came on strong and the fitness has shown."

Terry was impressed with the performance of Chelsea team-mate Joe Cole and hopes it will be sufficient to convince Capello he should be part of his final 23-man squad.

He said: "Joe has been very good. Towards the end of the season when we've needed big players, Joe Cole has been one of them at Chelsea.

"He scored a massive goal at Old Trafford and has done really well.

"The manager will make that final decision on whether to pick Joe. He's seen enough of Joe, what he's done in the last 10 days and against Japan, to know what he can do."

Pepe: Watch out for Ronaldo!


Football News: Pepe

Portugal defender Pepe is backing Cristiano Ronaldo to set the stage alight at the World Cup in South Africa.

Real Madrid's Pepe was named in the Portuguese squad after recovering just in time from a knee ligament injury he suffered in December.

Speaking to club's official website, he said: "I feel good.

"Real Madrid's team of doctors know how important the psychological recovery is for a footballer and both Doctor Diez and Doctor Hernandez think I am of sound mind."

Commenting on his side's preparation for the World Cup, he said: "Portugal is in good shape and we are working hard.

"We are ready and have what it takes to fight for the World Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo will be the player to keep any eye on.

"He had a strong finish in La Liga and helped Real Madrid a lot. He will be a decisive player in South Africa if he keeps up the pace."

Alonso: Casillas as good as ever


Football News: Iker Casillas

Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso claims national goalkeeper Iker Casillas will adapt to the new ball being used at the World Cup.

Casillas was unhappy with the way the ball behaved in the friendly against Saudi Arabia which Spain won 3-2 courtesy of an injury time goal.

The Spain number one fumbled the ball numerous times and was visibly frustrated during the match.

However, Alonso thinks the captain will soon get used to the new ball, just like everyone else.

In comments reported by Marca, Alonso said: "I see him [Casillas] the same as always, raring to go."

"We have to get used to the trajectories [of the ball], but as the days pass by I am sure that we will feel more comfortable."

Casillas is not the only one dissatisfied with the equipment being used in South Africa.

England's Joe Hart also expressed his unhappiness with the ball a week ago.

David James still in the dark


England's World Cup Squad of 30

David James is unsure of whether he has done enough to cement his spot as England's No.1 goalkeeper.

The Portsmouth shot-stopper, who suffered with a knee injury last season, made his first England start since April last year in the World Cup warm-up match against Japan on Sunday.

James was replaced by Joe Hart for the second half in Graz as the Three Lions clinched a 2-1 win, while West Ham keeper Robert Green is also in the frame for South Africa.

And despite being tipped to land the No.1 jersey this summer, James insists nothing is certain until manager Fabio Capello names his final squad on Tuesday.

"It's been a long season obviously, with injuries and whatever else," James told Sky Sports News.

"Just to start today was very nice because it was my first start in over a year.

"We'll see what happens with the selection. Hart played well in the second half and the squad's looking alright, so we'll see.

"As far as I'm concerned, the way that Mr Capello sorts things out, by the start (of the World Cup) the squad will be in the best shape we can be.

"I'm hoping it'll be myself of course, but it's about the squad, and if the squad's going to do alright then I'm sure we'll be there for that."

"Lampard, Gerrard could play together"


Football News: Lampard, Gerrard

Fabio Capello might play Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard in the centre of midfield for the match against the United States.

The conundrum of how to get the best from England's finest two attacking midfielders proved beyond Sven-Goran Eriksson and Steve McClaren.

Capello discovered the answer immediately, shifting Gerrard forward to turn the axis onto the partnership between the Liverpool captain and Wayne Rooney, while deploying a holding player that let Lampard cut loose from further back.

Yet, less than two weeks before England go into battle for the greatest prize in the game, Capello finds himself in the delicate position of having to wind the clock right back.

The problem has been created by a combination of a long-term injury to Owen Hargreaves, Capello's first-choice holding player, a more short-term problem for Gareth Barry that should at least allow him to make it to South Africa but not face the USA, and Michael Carrick's loss of form.

Twice in the past week, against Mexico and Japan, England have been in trouble until Gerrard was switched into central midfield and, on both occasions, the improvement has been instant.

Now, after spending so long pursuing another idea, Capello must decide whether it is worth resurrecting the Lampard-Gerrard formula.

"I know the history," Capello smiled. "This is a big question for you always? Can't play together?

"Probably both were too young. That was a joke. I hope that they can play together. I have to decide whether to try."

Capello likes to play his cards close to his chest and rarely reveals all about any particular subject.

Clues can be found though, and in highlighting how quickly England began to move, both with their passing and their feet after half-time, suggested Capello feels he will pair Lampard and Gerrard together in Rustenburg.

"Good players can move positions," he said. "Frank and Steve are used to going forward because they have a holding player alongside them.

"If they play together one will have to stay at different moments.

"The most important thing I saw against Japan was when these players got the ball they played it really quickly.

"The passes through the Japan defence were really good."

Capello will not start formulating his plans until he receives the latest medical bulletin on Barry Wednesday morning.

He expects to be told the Manchester City midfielder will be fit enough to train properly immediately after the United States encounter and therefore pass his minimum requirement for a place in the 23-man squad.

Once that information has been digested, Capello can begin the difficult task of making seven phone calls that inform the unlucky recipient their services are no longer required.

Scott Parker, Stephen Warnock and Michael Dawson will surely be out, so too Tom Huddlestone and Darren Bent.

To an outsider, the main problem is whether Capello utilises the guile of Joe Cole at the expense of the pace provided by either Adam Johnson or Shaun Wright-Phillips.

Capello's previous statements on the three players indicate a belief this World Cup has come too early for Johnson, who has made rapid progress after starting the season in the Championship with Middlesbrough but may have to wait for the Euro 2012 qualifiers.

Wright-Phillips did well against Japan on Sunday, but not as well as Cole, so unless Capello springs a major surprise by omitting Matthew Upson, Ledley King or Michael Carrick, there is no room for the Manchester City man.

Capello has already declared the decisions he has to make to be the hardest part of his job, and he will couch the bad news in the softer wrapping of telling the not-so-magnificent seven they were only in this position because they are among England's finest talents.

"I have told them all they are the best English players and that is why they were here," Capello said.

"They have all trained very well and stayed focused throughout, but I am disappointed because I have to choose 23 players."

There is also the matter of Capello's future to secure, by taking out the clause in his four-year contract that would allow either the Italian or the FA to terminate it following the World Cup.

A verbal agreement had been reached with former FA chairman Lord Triesman and Capello wanted to receive assurances from Club England chairman Sir David Richards before ignoring overtures from Inter Milan and concentrating on the biggest challenge of his career.

Capello and Richards spoke on the telephone and a source close to the discussions, who did not wish to be named, said they were "very positive" with both parties now hoping to bring a close to the matter by the time the team departs for South Africa.

It is understood that improving the terms of the contract is not on the agenda and discussions will only deal with removing the clause inserted in Capello's contract when he was appointed England manager.

"I cannot wait for the World Cup to start," he said. "I am focused on everything that I have to do and prepare so I hope the result will be good.

"But the whole thing is very exciting. I know that a whole nation stands behind the team and me. A whole country, with all its fans.

"The pressure is higher in England because the last title was achieved a long time ago.

"But the supporters have confidence in the team because I have it too."

Cole impresses club captain Terry


World Cup news: Joe ColeJohn Terry has hailed the qualities of Joe Cole as his Chelsea team-mate waits to find out if he will be part of the England World Cup squad.

Cole is one of those players who went into the two week training camp in Austria fighting to convince Fabio Capello he should be in the final 23 - which will be announced on Tuesday - after a mixed season at Stamford Bridge.

But he ended the campaign in good form and impressed when introduced as a second half substitute against Japan in Graz yesterday, first as a second striker behind Wayne Rooney and then in a wide right role.

Former England skipper Terry said: "Joe did very well and personally I'm pleased for him. He was great towards the end of the season for Chelsea as well.

"I was delighted to see him in and given a chance. He causes defenders all sorts of problems when he floats in between the midfield and the front men.

"He can see passes too. Look at the ball he played through for Ashley Cole. He made a big impact against Japan and he'll just have to wait and see (if he is selected.)"

Terry insists England have "as good a chance as anybody" of winning the World Cup because of the attention to detail paid by Capello.

And Terry stresses he has no injury worries ahead of the finals in South Africa despite suffering a tight calf in the 2-1 win against Japan.

The Chelsea captain said: "The warm-up games are really all about learning things. The first half against Japan was probably a little bit slow with the tempo we played.

"But the second half was definitely a lot better with the way we pressed, which was something the manager wanted after the previous game against Mexico.

"The attention to detail the manager shows, even after the games, stressing we need to work on a few things, is great.

"He leaves no stone unturned and, when we go to South Africa, we'll be fully prepared.

"The training camp in Austria has been good, with the training at altitude, and the facilities and the training pitch were fantastic.

"With a bit of luck, and everybody fit, we've got as good a chance as anybody.

"As you've seen game after game, you need to improve. But we're going there sharp, we'll get everybody fit and you can't argue with that.

Terry tasted his first match action since the FA Cup win over Portsmouth against Japan after being not considered along with Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard, Joe Cole and David James for the win over Mexico a week ago.

He suffered a tight calf but is adamant he has no injury worries heading into the finals.

Terry said: "I'm okay, I just got a kick on the calf as I went for a header.

"My calf tightened up but it was just a little bit of cramp in the end and nothing to worry about and, coming away from the game having won, that's the main thing. There are no injury concerns."

Mourinho takes Madrid bow


One of the best coaches in the world

Jose Mourinho was presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium as the new coach of Real Madrid after signing a four-year deal.

The Portuguese coach moves from Serie A outfit Inter Milan, where he helped guide the side to a Coppa Italia, Serie A and Champions League treble-winning campaign.

Mourinho, who becomes the Spanish giants' ninth coach in six years, replaces Manuel Pellegrini.

Real sporting director Jorge Valdano said: "Mourinho has signed a contract for four seasons.

"It's an honour to have with us one of the most prestigious coaches in the world.

"We are delighted to have him here with us.

"The best thing for our club right now, is to have Mourinho with us."

Mourinho, 47, terminated his contract with Inter last week after two seasons at the club.

Real have paid Inter a reported eight million euros (£6.8million) in compensation.

Mourinho said: "I don't know if I was born to coach Real Madrid but I was born to be a football coach.

"I love important challenges.

"I am Jose Mourinho and I don't change. I arrive with all my qualities and my defects.

"My attraction to Real Madrid is due to its history, its frustrations in recent years and its expectations to win.

"It's a unique club and I believe that not to coach Real leaves a void in a coach's career.

"Luckily, I've had a beautiful career and it makes me proud to have come here.

"I am very enthusiastic.

"I want my players to think that way.

"The beauty is not so much to train or play at Real, but to win at Real Madrid."

Real parted company with Pellegrini last week after a disappointing campaign.

Click here for a look at Jose Mourinho's Press Conference

They lost out to Barcelona in the title race and were knocked of the Champions League by Lyon in the first knockout stage.

"I think a coach needs to be ready to be sacked," Mourinho said. "But if a coach fears that, he doesn't work well and has great problems.

"I am a coach that has a lot of self-esteem and confidence and I don't think about the possibility of being sacked.

"I think four years of contract is enough to win, to build a strong team for the present and the future.

"The sacking of Pellegrini doesn't make me happy. I am never happy when a coach is sacked.

"But football is like that.

"I have a lot of confidence in my players, I have the hope that my new players have confidence in me."

Mourinho shed little light on what changes he will bring to Real but outlined his vision for the future of the club.

He said: "It's too early to speak about changes.

"I believe it's time to analyse the situation, to get to know my club, ask lots of questions and get answers.

"I need to realise the direction of my work.

"The most important thing is not the coach or the players but the club.

"We are too small compared to the dimension of the club.

"If we work as a group, it's not difficult to get results.

"I want this group to have an identity, to win everything.

"The strength of my team is always the team and not the individuals.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is an incredible player not only for Real but for the whole of football.

"Cristiano is a winner and it's not difficult to persuade him of this."

When asked if this was his biggest career challenge, Mourinho said: "I cannot say this is the biggest motivation in my career.

"My biggest ambition is always the next one. Right now it is Real Madrid.

"I don´t change my level of ambition or motivation. I gave everything to every club where I have been and I will do the same here.

"I don´t feel any kind of different pressure. I am a coach that improves day-by-day. I arrive with everything a coach can win at club football."

Mourinho refused to shed light on Real's transfer objectives but admitted few changes would be made with respect to last season's squad.

"I don't like to talk about players because their prices will go up if I do," Mourinho said.

"The club is happy with the roster of last season and so am I. We don't need major changes.

"We need three or four players for the coach to have more possibilities to get closer to my ideal of a team.

"But I don´t think it´s going to be a summer with a lot of changes. I think it will be a more calm summer with all the focus on the World Cup."

Speaking of arch-rivals Barcelona, Mourinho said: "I am not anti-Barcelona.

"I am coach of Real but Barca doesn't worry me. My only concern is to grow Real.

"Barca are great rivals and we respect them. If I am hated at Barcelona, it is their problem but not mine.

"Fear is not a word in my football dictionary."

The former Chelsea manager had kind words for Inter, the club he left after two successful seasons at the helm.

"I hope my former players can win everything in Italy but not the Champions League," he said.

"I cannot forget the group that I´ve had. Inter has a team for the future.

"They will need a quality coach and the coach that arrives will need to be intelligent and follow the path he needs to follow.

"Whoever arrives will be lucky because they will get the chance to play in three finals, the Italian Supercup, European Supercup and World Club tournament, a present I have left."

Buffon plays down World Cup chances


World Cup news: Gianluigi Buffon

Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has played down the chances of the World Champions retaining their title in South Africa.

Speaking from the altitude training base in Sestriere, the Juventus stopper believes that a repeat of their 2006 World Cup final victory against France in a penalty shootout is an arduous task.

"We have less chance of retaining the World Cup than we had of winning it in 2006 because after winning, it becomes more difficult to repeat that," he was quoted in fifa.com.

"But I have a lot of confidence because everyone, in particular the new-boys, is ready. Therefore we have the foundation necessary to make an impact at the World Cup, even if to win it you need many things to happen as well as luck.

Buffon remains adamant that even if the Azzurri fail to defend their title and get knocked out, they can exit the world stage with pride.

"If we have to be knocked-out the important thing is to do so with our heads held high having shown Italian football in a good light."

The 32-year-old is coming into the World Cup on the back of a disappointing season with Juventus, where he missed a huge part of the club's season but was also part of a team that posted a club record 15 league defeats and conceded another record 56 goals.

However, the Italian custodian denied that his ability between the posts has waned out and maintains he is still the best in the business.

"If I'm given the conditions to demonstrate my qualities then I still believe that I'm the best goalkeeper in the world," he said

"From the beginning of the season until November I had my best start to a season.

"But when you finish seventh in the league people say: of course at Juve there's no player who has performed," he went on. "I could be the best in the world for 100 years but if we always finish 10th or 11th no-one would even know I existed."

Buffon, who has spent nearly a decade at Juventus, also took the opportunity to pledge his loyalty to the Turin club and quash speculations linking him with a move to the Barclays Premier League with either Manchester United or Manchester City.

"I've given a lot to Juventus but it's true that I've received everything that a footballer would want, both on and off the pitch," he said.

"The fans love me and that means a lot to me. I have a very well defined situation with Juve, both on my part and their's. We want to continue our relationship.

"We live in an era in which if a player wants to leave, he leaves. Without any problems," Buffon added.

"You can see that Juve have shown a great desire to keep me, and I have done likewise to stay, otherwise that would not have happened. Right now the only thing I'm interested in is to have new players with the Juventus mentality -- those who join need to sweat blood for the shirt.

"This last season shows that (Claudio) Ranieri (who was sacked at the end of the 2008/09 season) was not the problem," the goalkeeper went on.

"We had come to the end of a cycle but even we players didn't realise that."

The Italians are drawn alongside Paraguay, New Zealand and Slovakia in Group F and will kick off their defence of the World Cup against Paraguay on 14 June.

Cole: No World Cup? No problem


World Cup news: Joe Cole

Joe Cole admits it is important to keep football in perspective as he waits to hear of his World Cup destiny.

The Chelsea midfielder is one of the players who could be on the borderline when Fabio Capello trims his squad down from 30 to 23 players on Tuesday.

Cole did his case no harm by coming off the bench to set up England's equaliser as they came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 in their final warm-up international in Graz.

But he said: "You've got to put football into perspective otherwise it will drive you mad because there is so much importance put on it.

"At the end of the day it is only a game of football.

"Constantly you have to have that perspective as a footballer because there is so much pressure and importance put on whether you win a game of football.

"I find it is good as a person to do that a lot.

"What will be will be, but the main thing is it will be great for the country and the people to have a great World Cup and go and win it."

Cole added: "What will I do on Tuesday (when Capello reveals his final squad)? I don't know. I've never been in this position. I don't know. It is a funny atmosphere. There is nothing you can do.

"We've done everything we can do, we've trained hard, everyone has had an excellent week's training and that's all you can do. I'll wake up on Tuesday, have my breakfast and there we go.

"Do I have any nerves? You've got to be pragmatic about it. I came here 10 days ago to try and enjoy my time back here, train well, and it's in the manager's hands about the squad.

"There are a lot of players who will be hoping, a lot of players have got a good case. But, whatever happens, we are all right behind England and hopefully this will be our time."

Meanwhile, Frank Lampard is willing to continue as England's penalty-taker if he gets the nod from Capello despite missing a second successive effort from the spot.

Lampard was off target when Chelsea defeated Portsmouth in the FA Cup final and had his spot-kick saved by Japanese goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima in England's 2-1 win in Austria.

The midfielder has netted 25 out of 29 penalties in all competitions since his spot-kick miss in the 2006 World Cup shoot-out against Portugal and he is willing to remain in the role.

Lampard said: "I always want to take penalties. It wasn't a great one against Japan which is disappointing because I practised loads this week.

"But perhaps it's better to miss them now. I was under the spotlight because I missed the last one I took. But I'm always confident in taking them.

"That will make me work harder and, if the manager wants me to take one, I will step up."