Gareth Barry looks set to start England’s game against Algeria on Friday night. The Aston Villa man has been out of action for several weeks after injuring his ankle and, despite suggestions that he was fit at the start of the tournament, he wasn’t risked against the USA on Saturday.
Now manager Fabio Capello, who usually plays his cards very close to his chest indeed, has confirmed Barry will be given the holding midfield role for England’s second game.
Speaking to ITV the Italian said: “Barry will start.”
Capello’s decision to confirm one of his selections so far ahead of the game is something of a surprise. The coach has developed a reputation for keeping his players waiting, usually making team announcements just two hours before kickoff.
It’s unclear why he has made the announcement now. The manner in which Capello has revealed his line ups has been criticised by some, with pundits suggesting it doesn’t give players enough time to mentally prepare for games, especially when it comes to picking World Cup teams.
However, it seems unlikely Capello is looking to address this issue. He hasn’t revealed any of his other selection plans and he doesn’t seem the kind of coach to single players out for special treatment.
Perhaps one clue as to his thinking can be found in the comments of Wayne Rooney. Speaking about the Aston Villa man he said: “We know what a player he is.”
”He can sit and hold for us, keep the ball and he’s good in possession.
”So he’s a different option if the manager decides to choose him.”
It certainly seems Barry is a popular player in the England squad, not just from a personal point of view but from a footballing one as well. The World Cup betting makes England among the favourites for the tournament, but they will need a boost after their draw against the USA.
It may well be that in announcing his inclusion in the starting XI for Friday, Capello hopes the whole team will receive a psychological boost.
Whether his plan works remains to be seen.