FRANCE 98 – General Media News Template
England, frustrated bystanders in the United States, are poised to re-enter the World Cup stage with a bang at France ‘98.
Semi-finalists eight years ago in Italy, the spirits in Glenn Hoddle’s camp are soaring as belief in the squad’s capabilities grows daily. A good showing in Le Tournoi in Paris last year-which they won despite a 1-0 defeat to Brazil – was followed by the tense remaining two games in the qualifying round against Moldovia and Italy. With a 4-0 drumming in the first England travelled to Rome securing a priceless goalless draw, a result that left them top of their group and on the road to France for their 10th finals appearance. With Alan Shearer back at full fitness after a six-month lay-off due to an ankle injury, England can boast one of the world’s top strikers in their camp.
And Hoddle has a pleasing problem working out Shearer’s fellow forwards with Teddy Sheringham, Ian Wright and this season’s sensation Michael Owen among the 29-man squad in the running for the finals. Hoddle, who raised a few eyebrows when declaring he has consulted a faith healer, has a happy blend of youth and experience to choose from in a provisional selection that failed to include Matt Le Tissier of Southampton.
Ice cool and unflappable David Seaman’s rock-like presence in goal is invaluable. In defence, Hoddle has Seaman’s fellow Arsenal teammate Tony Adams and the powerful young Sol Campbell. In Italia 90, Paul Gascoigne seduced a nation with his lightness of touch and his mercurial nature. Eight years on, with plenty of water passing under the bridge, Gazza can still turn on the magic but he may struggle to last the pace.
An appealing first-round draw against Colombia, Tunisia and Romania has only served to increase expectations that this could be a red-hot summer for Hoddle and his men.