This Summer in the Rainbow Country of South Africa the 2010  World Cup will take place.Will there be a pot of gold at the end of the Rainbow for England's footballers,or will it be another let down for England's fans by the  so-called "Golden Generation?"

In truth, the build up has not started well. First of all, Fabio Capello has had to replace John Terry as England captain for his shennanigans off the field and as a result of this unsavoury affair,  Wayne Bridge, England' s second choice left back has pulled out of the squad saying he will not be available for the World Cup. He understandably makes the point that his presence would be divisive (although in truth it is Terry's presence that would be the problem). But then Terry is more important to England's chances of success than Bridge is.

So, England are left with a real dilemma at left back with Ashley Cole presently unfit and licking his wounds from the fall out with his missus. Will his head be right in time for the Summer, never mind his ankle!!

It is no secret that England go into World Cup year with probably the weakest set of goalkeepers they have ever had....there is simply noone to fill the boots of Banks, Shilton, Clemence etc and this is really worrying.

Rio Ferdinand obviously has a long standing back problem and is nowhere near the player he was, and sadly Owen Hargreaves has told Capello his tendonitis problem will mean he will miss the tournament.

There are also stories that the hotel selected by the England hierarchy is still a building site and will not be finished!

The one shining light for England is the form of Wayne Rooney. The likeable Scouser is playing the best football of his career and is simply unplayable at times. Every England fan should be praying he keeps injury free and in form because with him, England still have a real chance of going far in the tournament.

For those lucky people who have tickets to the World Cup, have a fantastic time! For those of us who will have to watch it on TV I will be publishing a list in the near future of venues in Harrogate where the World Cup can be seen and where you can have a drink and enjoy an atmosphere.....if you have such a venue please contact me on 01423 819816 or email me at harrogate@thebestof.co.uk

Come on the Three Lions!!!!! Bring it home!!!!!