England's reputation takes a dive

The South Africa Angle explains why England can no longer occupy the moral high ground.

The biggest stories of the decade

Mark Lomas picks out the ten biggest stories from a decade of football trials and tribulations.

Andy Cole drafted in for 2018 bid

England's 2018 World Cup bid leaders have drafted in Andrew Cole to help impress Manchester United fan and key FIFA executive committee member Amos Adamu.

Six big names on the bubble

Every player wants the chance to perform on the World Cup stage. If they can get there, Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Juan Riquelme are among those who could have a huge impact.

Gullit: Owen faces tough battle

Ruud Gullit has said he thinks Michael Owen faces a fight to make it to the World Cup despite his hat-trick for Manchester Untied in the Champions League that has re-opened the debate about which strikers will make it into Fabio Capello's squad.

David Beckham chats with England manager Fabio Capello

Ardiles feels Beckham could miss finals

Ossie Ardiles believes David Beckham might be left out of Fabio Capello's England squad for the World Cup next summer.

Le Tiss spot on with penalty solution

The South Africa Angle examines a novel proposal that could eradicate England's penalty pain.

The return of summer romance

Brett Taylor looks ahead to South Africa as he seeks to rekindle a summer romance.

U.S. won't overlook its opponents

After receiving a relatively easy World Cup draw, the U.S. is in the rare position of being considered favorites to advance to the second round, but it can't afford to overlook its opponents, writes Jeff Carlisle.

Rooney slept through World Cup draw

England striker Wayne Rooney has revealed he slept through Friday evening's World Cup draw.

Many meaty draw questions to chew on

The U.S. team's delight at its first-round draw was hard to hide, as was France's continued good fortune. Roger Bennett reflects on the implications of the draw.

David Beckham knows his place in England's squad is not guaranteed

David Beckham captained England to the 2002 and 2006 World Cup finals

Beckham: I'm prepared for finals snub

David Beckham has admitted "nothing is guaranteed" when it comes to his hopes of playing for England at the 2010 World Cup finals. The former Three Lions captain will join AC Milan in January to prove his form and fitness to boss Fabio Capello but Beckham is prepared to be left out if he is not performing.