World Cup 2014 Preview – England

England has arguably the best club league in the world, and their national team isn't too shabby either. With a roster filled with superstars, they are looking to not be another let down like they've been prone to be the past few World Cups.

There's no better place to start breaking down England than up front with undoubtedly one of the top three strikers in the world: Wayne Rooney. Rooney is every defensive player's nightmare; he is deceptively fast, possesses great foot skills, has a fantastic aerial game and an absolute rocket for a leg. He's been an integral piece for world club power Manchester United, and seems like he's just hitting his prime. England are going to need all the offensive power they can get come June, and there's very few people on the planet better at their job than Rooney.

Take a look at the midfield and you'll see why this team is one of the best in the world. Led by great experienced players Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, and young gun Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain, England will often have a great advantage in the middle of the pitch, no matter who they may be playing.

Ashley Cole, Gary Cahill, and Glen Johnson will have to burden the load on defense in the absence of longtime captain John Terry. Cole and Johnson both have 50+ caps each, but Cahill has only appeared in 22, so this inexperience in the backfield may prove to be the undoing of this English squad.

My prediction: although England is completely loaded with talent, they have had a tendency to be huge letdowns come national tournaments. Group D is a difficult group with the presence of world powers Italy and Uruguay, not to mention a Costa Rican team who is looking to make a name for themselves. England should probably finish 2nd, but there's a sneaking suspicion that they'll under achieve yet again and finish 3rd, missing the cut for the knockout round.