Football’s creators didn’t deem the World Cup a worthy enterprise before the Second World War and thus, what was a fairly advanced England side for its time didn’t give itself a chance to pip Uruguay or Italy to the trophy. Ever since, England have made it to 12 of the 15 World Cups, but beyond the solitary victory in 1966, have only made it past the quarter-finals once, in 1990. A team of famous players, historically unable to adapt to the challenges posed by foreign territory and big-game tactical pressure.

Strengths
Tactics. England haven’t got a wealth of outstanding players in any single department, but have leaders in a few areas and an impressive tactical approach built around these key players. This is not a team that will get caught on the counter-attack very often, or fail to make their pressure pay when they are on the front foot. They get the best out of their best, which is why they are always a threat.

Star men
John Terry (Chelsea)
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
Frank Lampard (Chelsea)