Gerrard and Lampard thrive for Fab's 'new England'

THE Gerrard-Lampard debate now seems to be a thing of the past.

Fabio Capello has succeeded where previous England managers have failed by getting the best out of the two midfielders, not to mention Wayne Rooney, who has scored nine goals in eight qualifying matches.

I was one of Steven Gerrard’s critics when he was so inspirational for Liverpool yet distinctly average for England but Capello seems to have found a role for him where he has flourished. The left of midfield might not be Gerrard’s preferred position but with a license to roam inside, he’s flourished and his link-up play with Rooney and the fluidity with which they often change positions has been a particularly pleasing feature of the ‘new England’.

Lampard’s international career also seems to be resurrected under Capello. He seemed to be in decline after the 2006 World Cup but ever since the 4-1 victory in Croatia last year he’s back to his best and was as good as anyone on the pitch in the 5-1 victory over Croatia at Wembley that sealed England’s spot at the World Cup. Two goals apiece and stand-out performances from Gerrard and Lampard was the confirmation, if it was needed, that both can play a big role in the same England team.

The transformation under Capello is nothing short of incredible. From the team that looked hopeless less than two years ago in the 3-2 defeat against Croatia that ended our Euro 2008 hopes, England now go to the World Cup with possibly the best chance of winning it since 1966.
Of course, we shouldn’t get too carried away. Without expecting England to win it, I think we will be competitive and once you get past the group stages, it’s a knockout competition where anything can happen. Spain and Brazil are the favourites and look like the two sides to beat and the perfectionist Capello knows there is still work to do. Doubts still remain over the goalkeeper position, the defence has looked shaky at times and our fortunes at major tournaments are unlikely to change until we master how to score from the penalty spot.