The golden generation, who were championed by the media and destined for World Cups have failed to live up to expectation, reducing Champions League and Premiership winning ability to pitiful and lacklustre performances for their country, only Steven Gerrard has shown the determination and drive that fans come to expect when one pulls on the famous 3 lions.And the fans have made their feelings known, with a general wave of indifference towards the England team post world cup showing through on 5live's 606 and across the Twittersphere. The English national football team needed a new spark.
With Rio Ferdinand and Steven Gerrad injured, and Lampard, Ashley Cole, John Terry and Wayne Rooney released from International duty, Capello was forced to turn to the next batch of England talent.
And the talent was there. Ashley Young, who scored his first England goal against Denmark, won a penalty and got an assist against Wales, put in another fine performance against Ghana.
Jack Wilshere has received a lot of praise this season (some of it OTT) for his passing ability, vision and creativity and it has proven it's worth with swift rise to stardom for Arsenal and England this season.
With the return of Theo Walcott, Aaron Lennon and Adam Johnson, England have a lethal arsenal of pace and penetration on the wings and Andy Carroll's sweet finish is sure to be his first of many.
At the back Gary Cahill and Michael Dawson both look capable and Leighton Baines is in the form of his life.
Capello should take credit for the new 4-3-3 that allows for more flair and pace out wide with with a composed central 3 to control the possession.
The change of tactics and personnel should keep the critics at bay in the short term but the real question is whether recalling the so called 'Golden Generation' would be one step forward, two steps back.
How about this for a potential Euro 2012 Line-Up?
Hart
Kelly/Walker Smalling/Cahill Dawson Baines
Parker Wilshere Gerrard
Walcott Carroll Young
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