Capello’s Troubles Continue

England Manager Capello’s troubles with team selection continued on Wednesday night as they lost 2-1 in the friendly against France. They were left completely dazzled by a tremendous French performance that saw Karim Benzema and Mathieu Valbuena find the net either side of half time. 

Peter Crouch, who was given odds of 6/1 to score, came on from the bench to reduce the deficit but left England fans wondering where they should be placing their bets next. With bookmakers fancying England’s chances against a young experimental French side, that made them 6/5 favourites to win the match. 

The expected rejuvenation of the England team with the arrival of Andy Carroll did not materialise and the tried and failed technique of endless speculative long balls proved fruitless. France’s fast paced passing also found the England midfield wanting and the other new boy Jordan Henderson looked lost.

The two goals came as the English defence slept soundly, making it easier for the French to find the net. Benzema’s quick passing and powerful shot left Ben Frazer lost for the first goal. Ten minutes into the second half Bacary Sagna found space and Balbuena picked up the over-hit cross to put the ball in the corner of the net. 

England had their chances, with Gerrard missing twice and with Crouch’s introduction they found the back of the net in the 86th minute from a corner but it all came too late to even salvage a draw on the night.