Midweek and another day closer to EURO 2012.
Today we have ourselves a look at Group C. At first glance you may have thought this group was a simple one and focused your attention back on Group B.
Not true.
Let's find out why.
Quarter finalists in '96 and '08, not forgetting their fantastic run at FWC'98 where they ended third. Coached by one of their former defenders, Slaven Bilic, the Croats had a decent run in the qualifying stage. 7wins from 10played. This group does them no favours though and they'd need to have the likes of Corluka, Pranjic, Modric and captain Srna firing on all cylinders to stand a chance of progressing.
They also have the experience of Stipe Pletikosa in goal to give them an extra confidence boost...which will be needed.
Personally think midfield is their strong point with duo Kranjcar to Rakitic another two talented players to look at.
My One to Watch Nikica Jelavic
Signed by Everton for £5million, which a few questioned as 1. he wasn't too well-known and 2. Everton generally don't have that kinda money to throw around...he went on to be somewhat of a revelation at the club and could be the man to take Croatia places at this competition.
With the midfield/creatives playing behind him and his ability to finish with aplomb, Croatia could finally have it all worked out.
Injuries
Ivica Olic. A thigh injury has kept the veteran frontman out and he has been replaced by Nikola Kalinic
Prediction: 2nd/3rd [cos I'm no football Einstein]
1968. That's the last time the Azzurri won this tournament. Cesare Prandelli's men have had a strong run in qualifying, topping their group undefeated, with 7wins from 10played. The squad has an average age of 28 and includes veterans like Buffon [34], Di Natale [34] and Pirlo [33].
There's so much talent in this squad though and it would be a shame if they didn't use it. The issue, often is, that there are a few loose-cannons in the side. The likes of Antonio Cassano and Mario Balotelli can both be deadly on their day...if they keep their heads and leave the monkey business.
Expect Pirlo to conduct proceedings, with Marchisio, Montolivo and De Rossi contributing strongly in midfield too.
Sebastian Giovinco is my One to Watch
The Atomic Ant has had a superb season at Parma. Initially at Juventus, he was sent on loan to Empoli and then Parma, before I Gialloblù signed him on a permanent basis. The deal seems to have paid immediate dividends, with Giovinco netting 15goals + 11assists this season. It's now time for him to show off his ability at national level.
Injuries
Andrea Barzagli. The central defender has sustained a calf injury and will miss the group stages and could likely miss the entire tournament. Quite a significant loss as the Juve man was likely to start at the heart of Italy's defense.
Mario Balotelli. Gosh. Seems he picked up a knock in training and team doctors are assessing whether he needs to be replaced or not. The striker must be going bananas at the thought of missing out.
Prediction: 1st/2nd/3rd [depending which Italy come out to play]
They have Trapattoni as manager. The only manager to win all UEFA club competitions.
That being said, they're in a really tough group and look odds on to finish at the foot of the table.
Having Shay Given in goal could help them, but if you consider Richard Dunne will play at the heart of their defense and has had a rather rubbish season, it's not all fun & games.
There's 3 of their 5 most capped players in this squad
[Given, Duff and Robbie Keane], however I think it's safe to say both Duff and Robbie Keane are past their sell-by date.
My One to Watch is Shane Long
Long had a rather decent season at WBA. His first one for the club after moving from Reading, having spent 5years there. He isn't what you'd call a prolific striker, but he puts himself about and scores the odd goal too.
Why he's the key man: Ryu once said "You must defeat Shane Long to stand a chance"
Seriously though, if you've been told they'll do anything more than play three group games. Be warned. It's a Trap.
Injuries
None. Shay Given and John O'Shea have both come through injury scares and will play for the ROI.
Prediction: 4th
The defending champions. Nothing much has changed. They're still such a class group of players but I am bemused by the fact they've omitted Roberto Soldado [of Los Che] though and would probably have included him ahead of Torres.
Up front could be their problem this tournament. Torres isn't exactly firing on all cylinders and both Negredo and Llorente, although talented, need a few chances before they score.
Midfield and defense seem sewn up nicely, although they are now without the talismanic force of Carles Puyol in their backline.
My One to Watch is Jordi Alba
Jordi Alba was initially a winger at Valencia. He has made the transition to LB quite successfully so much so that he should probably be starting in that position for the national side. Very good going forward, with the defensive side of his game improved quite a bit. I have him down as the difference for this Spanish side. A huge talent. If he gets it right at this tournament, Spain are cruising...if he doesn't, they have a problem.
Injuries
David Villa. Having had a season to forget, the forward will not play a part in this tournament as he recovers from a fractured tibia.
Carles Puyol. Opted to have surgery in the summer and therefore misses out.
Alvaro Arbeloa. The Real Madrid fullback is an injury doubt with a trapped nerve in his back.
Cesc Fabregas. He was in doubt, but has trained and should play in their opener.
Prediction: 1st/2nd/3rd
Fixtures
10 June 2012
Spain vs Italy
Rep Of Ireland vs Croatia
14 June 2012
Italy vs Croatia
Spain vs Rep Of Ireland
18 June 2012
Croatia vs Spain
Italy vs Rep Of Ireland
Thanks again for joining me. Tomorrow we wrap up the previews with a look at Group D.
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