(Photo by Manuel Queimadelos Alonso/Getty Images)
Twelve points from four matches. So far so good.
England go into next week's home 2010 World Cup qualification match against Ukraine in buoyant mood and good form.
Despite defeat against Spain last month in Seville and an insipid performance reminiscent of Steve McClaren's reign, all is looking rosy for the Three Lions.
Their dismantling of a fancied Croatian team on foreign soil gave long-suffering England fans a glimpse of an exciting future and hope that, after 44 years of disappointment, 2010 may be their year.
Not only did Capello's men completely outclass and overwhelm the Croats, but also they showed a ruthless streak and focus that had seemed to be lacking ever since their famous 5-1 victory over Germany at the start of the millennium.
This was a different England: Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry dominated in the middle of the pitch, Wayne Rooney seemed to be back to his best and a young Theo Walcott stormed onto the international with a blistering hat-trick.
There was belief, passion, a defined plan that was adhered to and—most encouragingly—pride.
Many felt that, despite his undeniable managerial credentials, impressive aura, strong personality, and legendary no-nonsense approach to football, Fabio Capello would struggle to deal with the invasive media coverage and toxic WAG culture that had stagnated the national sport.
Fast forward 16 months and even Capello's most fierce and stubborn critics have eaten humble pie.
He has not had things all his own way, having overcome several battles already - the club versus country row that has proved so disruptive has yet again reared its ugly head over the last week in the debate over Ledley King's fitness.
3 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete