Philip Rolfe

March 25th 2010

No Surprises in European Championship Qualifying draw

The draw for the qualifying tournament for Euro 2012, to be held in Norway, was staged earlier this morning in Geneva, with few surprises. There is no traditional 'Group of Death' - with the closest fitting that description being Group Seven, which pits Portugal, Russia and Turkey in one five team group. Holders England face a relatively simple task of progressing through Group Five, alongside Romania, Macedonia, Austria and Armenia. Euro 2008 runners-up Iceland have a tricky test to return to the major stage, as they were drawn in Group Nine with Poland and the Czech Republic seeming the major threats. Twice winners France also have what can be considered a simple task in making their way through Group Two, although Bulgaria and Hungary could conceivably pose a challenge. Germany, three times winners, may find Belgium, Slovenia and Bosnia more irritating than hard, and should make it through. UEFA President Per Ravn Omdal said in a statement made after the draw that he was looking forward to an exciting qualifying campaign culminating in an unforgettable Euro 2012.

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OK, this is a CM3 story, so shoot me! :p It is also a sidetrack from my Varese game and story, and this presents a perfect opportunity to fulfill an idea of mine to write an International story, in journalistic mode. I'd also like it if this could become kind of interactive, in as much as the reader can will along the country they support. Maybe.

Tech details:
CM01/02, v.3.9.68 inc. data; Spain, England, Italy in foreground, Germany and France in background.

Philip Rolfe

A look at the draw...In Depth:

Group One

Group One could throw up any number of surprises. Torsten Dürr's Denmark should start the campaign as favourites to take the top spot, and with quality in the form of Dennis Rommedahl and Morten Skoubo they have a potent attack. Their defence is also relatively strong, with Martin Laursen marshalling a back line backed up by Udinese's Dan Thomassen and Lazio's Per Kroldrup. However, it may not be as easy as the Danes will like it to be.

Former World Champions (of 2006) Croatia have a blend of youthful exuberance and wily experience which will serve them well in the forthcoming qualifying year. River's Ivan Bosnjak should lead the line, where he should find support from veteran Tomislav Sokota. Where the Croats will have their strength is in central defence. In Igor Tudor and Josip Simunic they have a core to the side which, on its day, can be impregnable.

Mark Hughes has led Wales on a renaissance into what has been described as their best footballing period in the Principality's history. In Craig Bellamy and Robert Earnshaw they have two tenacious talents who will not only cause havoc in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil, but in the immediately following Euro 2012 qualifiers. Experienced defender David Vaughan will captain the Dragons wisely from the back, as he has placed himself amongst the elite defenders in Europe.

Lithuania may find it a struggle to compete with the more powerful sides in the Group, as will Slovakia, although the latter have prolific pairing Robert Vittek and Tomas Oravec. Ladislav Jurcimek's side may cause a few upsets, but not enough to progress the side to the Finals.

Betting Odds (qualification only): Denmark 3/1, Wales 5/1, Croatia 6/1, Slovakia 100/30, Lithuania 100/1

Group Two

France are overwhelming favourites for Group Two. They shouldn''t face any problems in what must be the easiest qualifying group of the nine. Paul Le Guen has a multi-talented squad at his disposal, at the forefront of which is the attacking triumvirate of Sidney Govou, Thierry Henry, and David Trezeguet. Should the thirty-something triad not pull their weight (which is unlikely) then Le Guen can call upon Manchester United's Anthony Le Tallec, or his cousin, Lyon's Florent Sinama-Pongolle. Patrick Vieira skippers the side whilst comprising a midfield of Bruno Cheyrou's creative flair, Camel Meriem's passing, and Didier Soler's balance and poise. Inter's Christian Rivière is perhaps the brightest French talent at this time, as the Basque left back continues to make huge strides in the National side. In Sebastien Frey they have a talented keeper, who if called upon is as reliable as any. In a tougher group France would still find qualification easy. Group Two should present little in the way of problem.

Bulgaria are the most likely to take second place. Dimitar Berbatov averages almost a goal every other international cap, as does partner Martin Petrov. Newcastle's Stilian Petrov is the third player Bulgaria will look for in the quest to return to the big time competitions, in what seems a favourable draw. Hungary will also feel that they deserve to return to the big time, as the days of Puskas, Kocsis and company are long gone. Krisztián Lisztes is their talismanic workhorse in midfield who is expected to drive the side forwards in hope Imre Szabics will succeed in what is usually a lone foray up front. Their defence is highly suspect however, and a playoff place seems too much to ask.

Georgia should have the quality to avoid bottom spot, but that is about all they have. Despite prolific club form, Alexander Iashvili cannot translate into internationals, only averaging one goal in six caps (which in over sixty caps is less impressive). Zurab Khizanishvili is another too talented for his nation, but like many others before him, he will probably never make the big tournaments. Latvia have the potential to make perhaps one or two teams sweat, but nothing too serious is expected. Vladimir Kokhan and Pavel Korchagine are a competent strikeforce, but Latvia will certainly not be heading to Norway. San Marino have some cracking quality - Raffaele Moroni, Alessandro Della Valle, and Cristian Gasperoni would not look out of place in a better nation, but their lack of depth means they will likely scrap for a point at best.

Betting Odds: France 1/6, Bulgaria 4/1, Hungary 7/1, Georgia 10/1, Latvia 10/1, San Marino 100/1

Philip Rolfe

Group Three

As ever, Spain are expected to dominate qualification for another major tournament they'll look to improve in. Miguel �ngel Lotina's side seem to qualify easily but struggle on the big stage. Something suggests that this time will be no different, although there is a hint that the tide could be turning. Dortmund's Raul is consistently brilliant, as he has been over his 112 caps. His partner will invariably be the multi-talented José Antonio Reyes, who has become one of the world's best. The midfield, despite being a little on the older side, is still a strong part of the side, and Real Madrid's Xavier Moron will hope to terrorise the defences of Group Three. Carles Puyol inspires the team from the centre of defence. Spain may find qualification a little harder than usual, but their true test will be in Norway in two years time - should they make it there.

Under highly rated young coach David Körner, Scotland have the talents to make an impact upon the group, and possibly worry the Spaniards. Sunderland's Keigan Parker and Venezia's Gary Twigg continue to impress critics in the attack, and one cannot ignore the talented Stephen McPhee, who is currently shooting Varese towards a UEFA Cup place. Barry Ferguson and Mark Kerr can hold claim to be one of the best central midfield partnerships in Europe, with Darren Fletcher, although inconsistent, as a dangerously quick player. Despite Lee Wilkie's presence, the defence is still shaky, but Körner has time to build upon that before qualification begins in September. A playoff place is not out of the question.

When mentioning Ukraine, Andrii Shevchenko immediately comes to mind. And so he should, as he ploughs through Serie A as Milan are all but Champions. FC Bayern's Olexiy Belik has emerged as a threat to Sheva's place in this side, especially with such an impressive record at this level. They have a wealth of experience, but ultimately have a poor record in qualifying groups. To stand a chance of making Norway in 2012, Ukraine need to become consistent.

Israel attempt to threaten at breaking through, but never achieve. Eli ShÃ*trit, Nir Berkovic, and Yossi Benayoun will lead their campaign, which is almost certainly not going to be too successful. Which leaves us with Estonia who, for a minnow nation, have some exciting players. Raio Piiroja of Strasbourg could play in a 'big league', but other than him Estonia lack the talent to take them on a successful path. Wooden spoon candidates.

Betting Odds: Spain 1/2, Scotland 3/1, Ukraine 4/1, Israel 40/1, Estonia 50/1

Group Four

Franco Colomba has lead Italy on a resurgence with a policy of using bright and talented youngsters with talented older players. Without a defeat in over two years, Italy haven't even conceded a goal since November 2008 through Spain's Capi. It's hardly surprising, as Italy have always prided themselves on a sound defence. Gianluigi Buffon could be the best in the world, and still only 32, he's got a long way ahead yet. Claudio Cioffi and Fabio Rustico marshall a back four which has become impregnable, in front of which a holding midfielder - usually Ambrosini or Cassetti - strengthens the spine of the side. Maro Marchionni's pace would be an asset to anyone, and Inacio Pia isn't far off him in the speed stakes. Francesco Totti, now 33, will still prove the main supply line to a lone striker, either Milan's Luca Toni or Marco Di Vaio. Colomba should steamroller this group with the Azzurri.

Sweden will be looking to take at least a playoff place, as they are the second strongest in the group. Zlatan Ibrahimovic is their talisman, as most of Uno Andersson's tactics revolve around the PSV hitman. Kim Kallstrom has emerged from a precocious talent into a world beater, but needs to improve on the bigger stage. Despite not having an all-star side, Sweden have a team ethic and work rate second to none, and for this they will benefit.

Greece, on the other hand, will pose a huge threat to Sweden's chances. A plethora of attacking talent at the disposal of Kirakos Karataidis means the South Europeans will not be stuck for goals. Manolis Ligkos is perhaps the finest in Europe, despite an average season with Bologna. Alexandros Papadopoulos is even more awe-inspiring, as he starts to flourish in the Premiership with Leeds United. Even Varese's prolific Christos Alexiou cannot find a regular way in. Anestis Anestasiadis, Giannis Kalogeras and Nikos Andrielos make a strong defensive line for the Greeks, who must fancy their chances of at least a playoff spot.

Belarus have a half decent side, but against the other nations in Group Four they look positively ordinary. Yury Shumanisky is a more than competent defender, and Alexandr Hleb can strike fear into the opposition with his fiery wing play. Expect a tough, battling side, just a little short on quality. Luxembourg must fancy themselves over at least the Faroe Islands for the battle to avoid finishing bottom, although the two have mustered just five wins between them in two years.

Betting Odds: Italy 1/6, Sweden 5/2, Greece 100/30, Belarus 20/1, Luxembourg 100/1, Faroe Islands 100/1

Philip Rolfe

Group Five

Holders England look to have a simple route ahead of them to make Euro 2012, and have the quality to retain their crown. Jamie Peake has assembled a squad of players coming into their prime, and can afford to experiment in the forthcoming campaign. John Terry and Rio Ferdinand have a commanding presence in defence, whilst Alan Smith up front is the most consistently prolific striker in the world. 186 goals in 235 games for Hertha Berlin is an unrivalled record, but he still finds it hard to start for England. Michael Owen still has the quality to play at this level, whilst Cherno Samba is ready to prove his worth to Peake. Jason Paterson is the creative link, whilst Roma's Matt Piper controls the wings. England must be one of the favourites for Euro 2012, even at this early stage.

Despite having a squad full of thirty-something players, Romania will expect to be the runners up to England. Adrian Mutu is the most recognisable player, and his record demands that. The Parma forward is one of Europe's least heralded players due to his nationality, but he'll be hoping to shoot Romania to success in the FIFA World Cup in Brazil and then in the qualification campaign. Christian Chivu has never really made the most of his career, but still has some quality to upset attackers. Bremen's Florin Cernat will look to add to the attack from midfield.

Despite making the World Cup finals, Austria have little to suggest they'll be pushing for more glory. Best players Alex Manninger, Roland Linz, and Wolfgang Wimmer are average at best, and there is little in the way of support for the three. Few of their players are in the major leagues, and as such they lack direction and competence. Macedonia are similar. Some above-average players, namely Igor Mitreski and Aico Stojkov, are not enough to put the former Montenegrinic state on the footballing map. Armenia are even worse. Without a goal in the whole of 2009, this year has started with two wins - but the likes of Estonia and Azerbaijan aren't going to have anyone shaking in their boots.

Betting Odds: England 1/5, Romania 3/1, Austria 10/1, Macedonia 40/1, Armenia 80/1

Group Six

Six years ago in Portugal Holland ran out winners. The Oranje have the talent to win the next tournament in Norway, but only if they can overcome their jinx against England. Ex-Groningen winger Arjen Robben is firmly entrenched in the starting side, usually accompanied by Youssef Hersi - although neither are exactly free-scoring. Their creative talents combined would serve Ruud Van Nistelrooy perfectly, as the Man Utd hitman continues to score goal after goal. Versatility in Wilfried Bouma and David Mendes Da Silva offer the Dutch strong flanks, or, in the latter's case, a strong centre of defence alongside Civard Sprockel. Few were happy at Ruud Gullit being named the national manager in July 2008, but slowly he's building a side capable of winning the major glory Holland fail to achieve.

The Republic of Ireland side continue to work under a typical Mick McCarthy style of hard work and a team ethic. That is not to say they are low on talent. Robbie Keane is the record goal scorer for Eire, whilst Clinton Morrison is not too far behind. In Millwall's John O'Shea they have a defender capable of playing anywhere along the back line, whilst Richie Partridge gives them a burst from midfield. Traditionally good against Holland, Ireland may fancy their chances of direct qualification, with a playoff place at worst. The outside challenge will come from

Serbia & Montenegro are managed by former striking legend Dusan Bajevic. His attacking ethos doesn't truly come across in his side, although with Mateja Kezman and Mirko Vucinic amongst the best on the continent, he has an enviable attack. Other than those two, Serbia & Montenegro look distinctly average, but they can still turn the style on, as they showed when recently beating Brazil. Finland may offer a stronger challenge with some fine attackers and a half decent defence. Mikael Forssell and Juho Mäkelä are equally prolific for the less successful of the Scandinavian nations, whilst Petri Pasanen is a rock in defence. With Sami Hyypia set to become the first Finnish player past 100 caps, Antti Muurinen's side are fully capable of challenging for the second spot. Albania have done well enough to pull themselves away from the tag of 'minnows' with some credible performances, and their striker Eduard Meka averages over a goal every two games. They will not, though, pose a qualification threat.

Betting Odds: Holland 1/2, Ireland 4/1, Finland 6/1, Serbia & Montenegro 10/1, Albania 80/1

Philip Rolfe

Group Seven

Germany flatter to deceive at the major tournaments, but should find qualification something of a breeze. However, Rudi Völler does not have a Jurgen Klinsmann, Lothar Matthaus, Gerd Muller or Paul Breitner to call upon in the squad of 2010. Roma's Christoph Metzelder is one of the best defenders in the world, but other than Markus Feulner, there is a lack of world class talent. For that, though, Germany do what they do best - frustrate opposition and use the talent at their disposal efficiently and purposefully. Young midfielder Dennis Becker may break through just in time for Norway in two years, and Völler certainly needs a spark to liven them up. Qualification should arrive easily.

Having a say in this will be Belgium, although talented club players fail to make it at the international scene. Emile Mpenza cannot continue to carry the side on his shoulders, and whilst the likes of Malbranque, Sonck and Soetaers are good, they haven't progressed to the next level. 26 year old Jelle Van Damme has 58 caps already, which will serve him in good stead for the main portion of his career. Despite this perceived lack of quality, Belgium have the players to make at least second place.

Bosnia have always had one or two class players in a side of less talented players, but 61-year-old coach Miso Smajlovic doesn't even have this at his disposal. Zlatan Bajramovic and Hasan Salihamidzic are the best Bosnia can muster, and they are pretty tasty, but the rest of the party has little to offer. Slovenia have a fine centre back in Bekim Kapic, and a competent partner in Dejan Komljenovic. Miha Golob can offer talent on the wing, and Schalke's Dejan Robnik can score when he's on form. The Slovenians could, with a bit of luck, make a playoff spot. Malta haven't beaten anyone since Namibia in 2007, and show little to change that. Michael Mifsud is not the player expected of him, and when he's the best they have, you can see why their record is so poor. Azerbaijan are almost as poor.

Betting Odds: Germany 1/3, Belgium 4/1, Slovenia 8/1, Bosnia 20/1, Azerbaijan 100/1, Malta 100/1

Group Eight

Possibly the toughest of the nine groups, as three well matched sides vy for two spots. French legend Alain Giresse takes charge of Portugal after four moderately successful years with the Iberian side. The side tends to lean towards the talented Besiktas scorer Felipe Oliviera, who at 25 already has over 70 caps. A more natural goalscorer is found in Mokas, who continues to impress for the yo-yo club that is Bari. Ricardo Quaresma is another huge talent, who hasn't made the move to a big club - although Leeds have helped his career tremendously. Helder Postiga only adds to their impressive front line. Giresse must fancy his chances of taking the Portuguese through to the final rounds.

Turkey also rate their chances highly. Yildiray Basturk is in the form of his life, scoring near twenty goals for a mid table German club, whilst Fatih Sonkaya has emerged as possibly the best Turkish centre back since Alpay. Emre is about to hit the peak of his footballing career, and with Berkant, Ufuk and Serhat in the frame, Turkey have the set up for a challenge. However, coach Mehmet Ozturk has come in for criticism as many think he is not capable of being a top quality national coach. Russia finished fourth in Scotland/Wales in 2008, and would be delighted to repeat the feat. Apart from Valencia's Deniis Popov, the Russians don't have the quality that took them far in Britain two years ago. Alexandr Kerzhakov is a decent playmaker, but without sufficient support, he and Popov become isolated. If Russia can find a catalyst in the side, they may well surprise a few.

Northern Ireland have been waiting for a 'Golden Generation' to come through for the first time since the early 1980's. It has yet to materialise, meaning the Irish are still living on memories of Whiteside, O'Neill, Armstrong and the like. Newcastle's Kevin Braniff is a player who could lead the line, but has struggled to play regularly for Harry Redknapp at St.James' Park. Stephen Munn is a very good young defender who is strong in the air and in the tackle. Unfortunately, Sammy McIlroy doesn't have enough of these players, and as such the Northern Irish are consigned to another unsuccessful qualifying campaign. Moldova may even fancy their chances of beating McIlroy's men. Denis Calincov is the first high profile Moldovan to make it at a big European club (Anderlecht), and as their game revolves around him his form is crucial. It won't be enough for them though.

Betting Odds: Portugal 2/1, Turkey 4/1, Russia 8/1, N.Ireland 36/1, Moldova 66/1

Philip Rolfe

Group Nine

The Czech Republic have a group of players capable to qualify easily and storm Euro 2012, with a great chance of success. Tomas Rosicky has played to his potential for the last two to three years, and with Inter he is able to play his natural game. The Czechs allow him to play this role as well, which benefits the strikeforce of Milan Baros and Marek Heinz. Experienced Bundesliga duo Jan Simak and Tomas Ujfalusi add steel to the side, as does the younger Zdenek Grygera. The squad may be a little on the older side, but that may be rectified over the course of the next two years, as the draw allows them to experiment to some degree. They shouldn't be complacent. Poland have some cracking emerging players. Emanuel Olisadebe is still the main striker, and his partner, Mateusz Dobek, is starting to flourish into a quality player. Comparisons have been made to the legendary Zibi Boniek. Jakub Wierzchowski is an accomplished keeper, whilst Michal Stasiak is a born leader. Their defensive style sometimes is detrimental to their game, so a more attacking outlook may see Polish success.

Iceland shocked the footballing world by finishing runners-up to England in Euro 2008. It wasn't mere fluke that Adli Eðvaldsson's side made it that far. Eidur Gudjohnsen is one of the top fifteen strikers in the world, as Dortmund will testify. Sævar Sigurdsson is a rock at the heart of the defence, and Kristján Sigurdsson alongside him makes the Icelandic defence very strong. Kristján Ólafsson is a capable third contender should a back three be required. Emil Halfredsson is the creative enforcer used by Iceland, who will certainly challenge for top spot. Switzerland are simply not what they were. Euro 1996 was their last major tournament appearance, and it doesn't look like changing now. Too many old and untalented players are blocking the young talent from coming through. Players such as Raphael Wicky, Cristian Ayala and Adrian Zwyssig are stopping the likes of Vural Oenen and Philippe Friedli from coming through and shining. Johann Vogel will do his utmost for the Swiss to success, but it looks a lost cause.

The imminent retirement of Mihalis Konstantinou will see Cyprus fall even further into the abyss. Other than centre back Petros Konnafis, Konstantinou has been the only quality Cypriot international, and their slim chances just became even paler.

Betting Odds: Czech Republic 2/7, Poland 3/1, Iceland 4/1, Switzerland 16/1, Cyprus 40/1

How Qualification Works:

The winner of each of the nine groups qualifies for the European Championships. The three best runners up of the nine sides finishing second will also qualify directly. This leaves six sides, who will be drawn into three playoff games, to be played over two legs. The respective winners will also head to Norway. This leaves one spot, which is taken by the host, Norway.

Dates:
Qualifying Day One: 4th September 2010
Qualifying Day Two: 8th September 2010
Qualifying Day Three: 9th October 2010
Qualifying Day Four: 12th October 2010
Qualifying Day Five: 26th March 2011
Qualifying Day Six: 30th March 2011
Qualifying Day Seven: 8th June 2011
Qualifying Day Eight: 3rd September 2011
Qualifying Day Nine: 7th September 2011
Qualifying Day Ten: 8th October 2011
Playoff Leg One: 12th November 2011
Playoff Leg Two: 16th November 2011

Tricky Winger

An European Championship just outside my door?

Will definately be following this. It's looking fine!

BobBev

An excellent start Junichi. You want interaction - C'mon you Scots

Philip Rolfe

14th July 2010

2010 FIFA World Cup - Brazil - review

After 32 days of sublime football in the paradise of Brazil, Ruud Gullit led his Dutch side to their first ever World Cup victory. A 2-0 win over Uruguay in Rio's Maracana was fully deserved for a side who tore through the competition. A late Youssouf Hersi double meant captain David Mendes Da Silva was able to join the list of greats to lift the greatest prize in football. The tournament produced its traditional shocks, perhaps the greatest being England's failure to make it out of a group with Belgium, USA, and Uruguay in. Jamie Peake's side were one of the pre-tournament favourites, and a shock 1-0 defeat to a talented US side saw the English party travel home with their tails well and truly between their legs.
Greece made a huge impact upon world football with a series of amazing results, the most notable being a 4-0 win over Germany in the Quarter Finals, which followed a 3-0 drubbing of hosts and favourites Brazil. Kiriakos Karataidis selected a squad of attacking brilliance, and it showed as Alexandros Papadopoulos and Manolis Ligkos wreaked havoc on the tournament, as they scored twelve goals between them. A 3-1 defeat to eventual winners Holland in the Semis saw an end to a fairytale tournament for the Greeks, but a fourth place finish is not to be scoffed at, as it gives Greece a fabulous position to work from for success in Euro 2012.
After going over a year without conceding an international goal, Italy capitulated in the Second Round with a 4-0 collapse to Holland. Franco Colomba's side were looking good for a semi final spot at worst, but captain Buffon had a nightmare against the Oranje Machine, who ultimately proved unstoppable. Germany can also take positives from the tournament, including a find that will serve their future. 24-year-old striker Kai Brand hit a hat-trick in the Second Round against Croatia to send them through, and the Union Berlin hitman has firmly established himself as the main striker for Voller's side.

Winners of the XIX FIFA World Cup - Holland
Runners Up - Uruguay
Third Place - Argentina
Fourth - Greece

Golden Boot Winner - Manolis Ligkos - Greece, 8 goals
All Star Squad - Mohamed Benmahou (Algeria, GK), Nelson Cuevas (Paraguay, RB), Dédé (Brazil, LB), Junior Izaguirre (Honduras, CB), Michael Walke (Austria, CB), Wael Reyad (Egypt, RM), Ciarán Keane (Ireland, CM), Kevin Gall (Wales, CM), Youssouf Hersi (Holland, LM), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden, FC), Manolis Ligkos (Greece, FC). SUBS: Greg Etafia (Nigeria, GK), Dirk Kuijt (Holland, FC), Lúcio (Brazil, CB), Matei Mirel Radoi (Romania, MC), James Glenn Mitchell Brown (Honduras, FC), Trianos Dellas (Greece, CB), Andrea Pirlo (Italy, MC)

Philip Rolfe

15th July 2010

Time Up for England coach Peake
England manager Jamie Peake has today been sacked by the English Football Association after a dismal showing at the recent World Cup in Brazil. A disappointing tournament culminated in elimination at the Group Stage, when many respected football pundits expected at least a quarter final spot from the reigning European Champions. FA Chief Executive Mike Palios said "after extensive discussion we have taken the unfortunate decision to terminate the contract of Jamie Peake with immediate effect. Jamie has been very successful with the national side in the past, but the below-par performances in Brazil were totally unacceptable for the quality of player Peake had at his disposal. We believe it to be in the best interests of English football to start with a new manager who can guide England to success."

40-year-old Peake shocked the footballing world when becoming England manager back in 2004, having come from his role as coach at non-league Wealdstone. He changed the national side, preferring to play younger players over the more untalented older generation. It worked. England clinched their first trophy at Euro 2008, 42 years after their last international success. Peake became a national hero, and it was widely expected that he was to lead the side to glory in Brazil, but it was not to be. In 56 games, Peake won 41, lost ten, with just five draws.

Many people are unhappy with the rapid dismissal of Peake for just one failure - albeit a high-profile one. It remains to be seen whether the FA have made the correct decision. Meanwhile, the Football Association hope to have a new manager installed by the start of the Euro 2012 qualifying campaign which starts in September. Early favourites include Aston Villa manager Steve McLaren and Chelsea's Gary Megson. More extravangant bets will go on Glenn Hoddle and Kevin Keegan, both quoted at 500/1.

Shock dismissal of Colomba leaves Italy reeling
Despite crashing out of the FIFA World Cup at the hands of winners Holland, many people felt Italy had held up well in Brazil, with one off day causing their downfall. So it has come as a huge shock that the Italian footballing authorities have found it correct to sack manager Franco Colomba. The much liked 55 year old took Italy to the World Cup, a job he was hired to do back in 2008.

Just one goal was conceded in his seventeen match tenure in charge of the Azzurri, and the defeat to Holland was his first loss in charge of the national side. He made Italy a tough side to beat, as his defensive record shows, and put together a squad capable of challenging for future glory, as youngsters such as Eder Bau, Claudio Cioffi, and Giovanni Castellini were allowed to flourish amongst more prestigious names. Italian FA chief Adriano Galliani said at a news conference: "We have decided to cancel the contract of Signor Colomba. Despite a good record with the nazionale, we feel he could have progressed further, and the failure to do so means he is not the correct man for the job. The players he has to use are of superior quality that their performance shows, and now is the time for change."

The move has been met with widespread criticism. People are outraged at the treatment of Colomba, who has declined to comment at this time. The search for a new chief is on, with the favourite being under-pressure Juventus manager Claudio Ranieri, who may well see the Azzurri job as a haven away from club management. If he can be tempted from Roma, Giovanni Vavassori will be a great steal for the FIGC.

Elsewhere...
Croatia part company with manager Mauro Ravnic after elimination at the second round in Brazil.....host nation sack manager Marco Aurélio.....Nigeria release Carsten Unger.....Portugal chief Giresse under pressure.