World Cup:England manager Fabio Capello's choice of goalkeeper for tonight's World Cup clash with Algeria is the subject of mounting speculation with David James this morning tipped to make a surprise return to the team in Cape Town.
Capello stated yesterday that he would not inform the players of his final decision until two hours before the game, a policy to which he has rigidly stuck throughout his managerial career.
Robert Green started against the United States on Saturday but his mistake gifted the Americans an equaliser in the 1-1 draw and Capello kept his options open during yesterday evening’s final training session.
In a small-sided game across half of the pitch, Green kept goal throughout, strengthening the belief of those who thought the 30-year-old was going to retain his place.
But James, who alternated with Joe Hart, kept goal behind first choice central defensive duo John Terry and Jamie Carragher, which gave a heavy hint the other way.
Having used the much-debated Jabulani ball to excuse Green’s error against the USA, it seemed Capello was ready to stand by the West Ham keeper who also made a couple of mistakes in training last night.
“When I chose Green last week he was in good form,” said Capello in yesterday’s press conference. He played very well in the first half of the friendly against Mexico. And even last week, the outcome was good for the team because usually you would lose the game after a mistake like that.
“But I have to choose the value of different players, not just think about their mistakes. I have to justify selecting the keeper I choose.”
If James does get the call, it would represent a remarkable about turn. The Portsmouth keeper started the first 13 matches of Capello’s reign before succumbing to numerous injury problems.
Since naming his 30-man provisional squad, Capello has largely ignored James though. The veteran was given half a match in the victory over Japan at the end of last month but, other than the injured Gareth Barry, was the only player not to play any part in the pre-tournament practice match against the Platinum Stars.
Although it looks as though James can expect good news, there will be no official confirmation until an hour before tonight’s game with the player himself not due to be told until 60 minutes earlier after Capello has one final check on Green’s mental state.
“In my first year in management, I would tell the players if they were playing on the day before,” recalled Capello, who celebrates his 64th birthday today.
“I would speak with them after dinner. But three times someone got injured and then it was difficult to get the other player ready to play. So I stopped. I have not done it since.”