RE: My England Formation for Israel Match

Here is my two cents on the possible English Formation for this Sat's England vs Israel Match

Goalkeeper: Paul Robinson / David James
Leftback: Ashley Cole
Rightback: Micah Richards / Nicky Shorey
Centreback: John Terry (C) / Micah Richards
Centreback: Rio Ferdinand
Defensive Midfielder: Owen Hargaves / Michael Carrick
Centre Midfielder: Steven Gerrard / Joe Cole
Left Winger: Stewart Downing / Ashley Young
Right Winger: David Bentley / Shaun Wright-Phillips
Striker: Michael Owen
Striker: Emile Heskey

Notes:
For goalkeeper in such a crucial, I would stick with Paul Robinson instead of David James as to take him out now, would be a blow to his confidence. As a Liverpool fan, I am a bit biased against James due to his matches for Liverpool. I am not sure whether he can be up to it in this match although his form has been better than Robinson.

As for the defence, it sort of picks itself at the moment. Without Gary Neville, Micah Richard should be the right back for this one. However, if Terry does not prove his fitness, Richards should move into CB while allowing Shorey as the RB.

In Midfield, the main question would be over the fitness of Owen Hargaves and Steven Gerrard. If either of them are not available, Michael Carrick or Joe Cole should be able to step in. The wingers in downing and bentley should provide the crosses needed for the two strikers up front.

As for forwards, my choice of Emile Heskey and Michael Owen is like a reunion of sorts as they have played together before combining for 14 goals in 12 matches. Although it is a risk for such a combination, but I do not see a better option up front at the moment.

England should go for it at the start of the match as Israel would be grateful for a point.

My verdict: England 2-1 Israel

Check out my other predictions for the Upcoming Euro Qualifiers below.