England has waited a long time to see their team succeed in the World Cup like they did in 1966 and maybe this time more than any before they have a golden chance of doing that. Probably why they are second behind Brazil as favourites to win the 2006 World Cup.
Under Sven Goran Eriksson qualification had its ups and downs, notably a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Northern Ireland. But they showed in the last couple of games of their group that things were beginning to click again and anticipation is now high for the England squad.
England can now genuinely boast a list of World class players in all areas of its squad. Even with players like David Beckham, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, John Terry, and Michael Owen in the team, a lot will rest on the shoulders of Wayne Rooney. Although still very young, many believe he will shine in Germany and be one of the players to watch.
The England team will be favourites to top Group B, though they've usually made hard work of the groups stage in previous World Cups so nothing can be taken for granted. After that anything less than the quarter-finals will be a major disappointment for a group of players definitely at the highest level. [Latest England Squad News]