5. Southampton's English Core Continue To Show Promise
Amid all the doom and gloom surrounding England's World Cup prospects and let's face it, it's probably justified it can be hard to feel good about the standard of the generic English player in the Barclays Premier League. Yet those who feel pessimistic probably don't watch Southampton day-in, day-out, where a hungry English core continues to reap rewards under Mauricio Pochettino's stewardship. Southampton's youth academy continues to be the envy of both these shores and abroad, and its alumni brought their best game to St. James' Park. Luke Shaw's bombing runs were a thorn in Newcastle's side, James Ward-Prowse's battle in midfield belied his young years, and perhaps most noticeably the Saints' young creator-in-chief Adam Lallana made terrific use of what short time he was given. It was Lallana who unshackled Jay Rodriguez another Englishman, it must be point out for the goal's incisive breakaway with a clever side-footed pass before going to ground, and the former Burnley man played his part with aplomb. Lallana's dynamic creativity and Rodriguez's gut-busting runs from deep might be what's needed in the heat of Manaus, where England's old guard may struggle with the humidity. Off Saturday's evidence, I wouldn't be too worried about them.
Durham University graduate and qualified sports journalist. Very good at sitting down and watching things. Can multi-task this with playing computer games. Football Manager addict who has taken Shrewsbury Town to the summit of the Premier League.
You can follow me at @Ed_OwenUK, if you like ramblings about Newcastle United and A Place in the Sun. If you don't, I don't know what I can do for you.
