England vs Algeria – James wins race for number one
Published:Portsmouth goalkeeper David James is set to be handed a shock recall for England’s crucial Group C tie with Algeria, which kicks off at 7.30pm.
The 39-year-old James replaces Rob Green following the West Ham goalkeeper’s mistake which handed the USA the softest of equalisers in England’s drawn World Cup opener.
While Capello was reportedly impressed with Green’s mental fortitude in recovering from his error, the England manager seems to have lost faith in Green and has opted for the more experienced James.
If James can replicate his excellent club form of last season, England should be able to keep a clean sheet against Algeria, which is convincingly priced at 8/15.
Although England’s other goalkeeper, Joe Hart, is said to have impressed during training, Capello appears to deem the 23-year-old as too inexperienced to start against Algeria.
England cannot afford to drop any more points in Group C, and with the onus so heavily placed on victory tonight, Capello has reverted to experience.
James may have a history of making errors, but the Portsmouth goalkeeper has proven himself to be a dependable professional in recent seasons.
And if he can instil some much needed confidence into England’s defence, Capello’s men will be well set to inch nearer the last 16 with victory against Algeria.
Do you think anyone can beat James? Algeria’s Karim Ziani is 20/1 to score first. See the full England vs Algeria market.
