It Is 'Now Or Never' For This England Generation

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has believes that this year’s tournament represents the last chance for England’s ‘Golden Generation’ to the win the World Cup.

The Frenchman believes that many of the top players in Fabio Capello’s side will be too old to compete for the World Cup in four years time.



"I am convinced that it is now or never for this generation of England players,” Wenger told The Sun.

Most of their best players are now between 28 and 31 years old. They are at the right age to win a big tournament.

"They have the experience they need to get through that big, big game even when the team is not playing well.

"Wayne Rooney will still be a world force in four years' time.

"But Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard - their other most important players - will be 34 or 35 and not so effective."

Wenger thinks that Rooney is capable of carrying England’s attack by himself and the Gunner boss predicts that Capello will play him as the lone striker.

"I have been hugely impressed by Rooney and everything he has done for Manchester United and for England this season.

"He has power, desire, calmness, great technical qualities and is now scoring many more headers than at any other time in his career.

"One of the main considerations for Fabio Capello at this World Cup will be whether to play with two up front or play Rooney on his own.

"I will bet that he starts with Rooney on his own - with the big midfield players like Lampard and Gerrard breaking late into the box to support him."