Looks Like King Could Be In

I'll start with a disclaimer. I'm a Tottenham fan and, therefore, have long since known what is becoming apparent to the rest of you. And that is: Ledley King is the best defender in England. Or rather, he should have been, but his chronic knee problems have reduced him to maybe 2nd best defender in England.

That's why the report in The Times newspaper suggesting that King will be included in Fabio Capello's provisional 30 man squad for the World Cup 2010.

I know all the arguments about not taking a persistently injured player to the World Cup and, on one level I agree with them, but frankly, I don't care. A defender of such quality shouldn't be left at home. Even if he only plays one match for England it will be worth it.

And, incidentally, he's played more matches this season than Rio Ferdinand.

Platini Engages Mouth Before Brain Is In Gear

I have to confess that, unlike many Englishmen, I have a lot of time for Michel Platini. He talks a lot of sense about the game and his plans to try to bring some fiscal responsibility to how clubs are run is in the genuine interests of the game in the long run.

However, if I was French, I would be rather annoyed with Monsieur Platini right now. Why?

Well, because Platini has had the temerity to say what everyone else is thinking about France's chance in the World Cup.

Here's what he said:

"There's a Raymond problem. Domenech was hopeless, it was after the Euros with his proposal which hurt the whole of France.."

"People were in pain and he comes with his words. He knew it, he's acknowledged it, he messed up and that's it. I don't see them [France] winning. I see them passing the first round. After, they will play either Argentina or Nigeria."

He's right of course. But if I was French, I would be more than a little annoyed that the President of UEFA was talking down his home nation's chances before the World Cup has even started.

Luckily for me, I'm not French.