Oh no another bad week of business as the nation is besotted by the England World Cup progress as we march onto to another triumph.

I know this is not a universal opinion but I thought there was big improvement in the performance yesterday – real signs that the team is taking shape. Of course, there is plenty of room for improvement.

Not sure that Rooney’s best position is as a striker but he did enough to suggest that he can grow into this new role.  He caused enough problems to give opportunities to the support cast of Lampard and Gerrard – it is a pity that they did not bring their shooting boots with them!

In defence Paul Robinson still looks shaky when called upon to catch centres but I still have faith that he is the best goalie we have. Well, Owen Hargreaves was a revelation (again) and not so sure we should replace him with a fit Neville! Ferdinand and Terry had their moments but looked solid in the 2nd half. Another storming match from Ashley Cole too!

Where art have you been dear Carrick? He was man of the match in my opinion, and I hope Sven does leave him out yet with another permutation. His passing and vision was brilliant. We cannot afford to drop him!

Lampard, Joe Cole, and Gerrard had poor games. When they are firing on all cylinders we will be a force – and they will need to be far more productive against Portugal.

Captain Beckham – yes, he scored a magnificent goal- but I still doubt his overall contribution to the team. First I do not see him as a captain – I would much prefer John Terry – who I feel would demand more on the field. Second Beckham is limited to delivering free kicks, corners and passes. I know he has delivered more passes than anybody else in the tournament but then he takes all the set pieces it is no surprise. Through the sheer volume he has to deliver some good balls. Lampard, Cole, Gerrard and Rooney could all take free kicks/corners and I am sure they would deliver! I am sorry Becks but I think you should bow out and let Lennon cause problems for defences. Lennon would deliver more crosses than Beckham as he has the ability to beat people with his skill! Unfortunately , I do not see Sven making such a change and Lennon will remain an impact player!

Roll on Saturday with Deco and Costinha out through suspension, we have a real chance to progress to the semi-finals!

Stumble it!