Taking the Mick?

Sven's dropped a hint that Spurs midfielder Michael Carrick may start in midfield - but it would depend on the opposition.

Peering into the dome-headed supremo's grey matter, our great leader revealed: "Maybe in some games I would pick Carrick ahead of Frank Lampard or Steven Gerrard in order to have a real sitting midfielder," – leading to a collective intake of breath from all England fans.

"In some games we will meet a team with two strikers and a player like Zinedine Zidane behind them and you have to think about what to do."

Yes, it is your job, Sven.

The former West Ham lad started against Uruguay in a friendly in the absence of injured Lampard.

The Spurs 24-year-old was used in a holding role, allowing the attack-minded Gerrard more opportunity to push forward.

Seems like a plan.