📢 BARKING NEWS!
The guessing game is over and after months of speculation the England Dogs World Cup team was released overnight.
Manager, Uncle Gary, said he was confident his team could go far in the tournament and has chosen an exciting combination of youth and experience.
Below we look at his squad in depth and give a brief summary of their abilities.
⚽️ Goalkeeper… CJ Peacock
Ever dependable CJ got the nod after an impressive finish to the season. A good shot stopper with sharp reflexes who commands his area. Rumours are he is retiring after the tournament so will want to go out on a high.
⚽️ Left back… Kiko Underwood
Oldest member of the squad but also one of the fittest. Tenacious and fearsome in the tackle and good going forward. Will need to keep his suspect temper intact when opponents get at him.
⚽️ Right back… Rosie Madders
After being put on a strict diet, made the squad after impressing Uncle Gary with her fitness on the pre-season tour to Scotland. Not afraid of getting stuck in and has a deceptive turn of pace.
⚽️ Centre Half (1)… Cozmo Fletcher
Appearances can be deceptive but Cozmo has developed into a fine defender, robust in the tackle and although not the tallest, has a great leap which will come in handy at set pieces.
⚽️ Centre Half (2)… Jasper Mullineux
The baby of the team but his partnership with Cozmo is reliable and their understanding improves every time they are paired together. Senses danger and tends to get in the face of the opposition. Can be petulant and pick up silly bookings.
⚽️ Midfield… Darcy Rose
Reared in a sporting family, Darcy operates just in front of the back four, giving them key protection and she is not afraid of receiving the ball in tight spots. A powerful tough tackling defender but carrying a slight injury to her left leg which will need to be monitored by the physio.
⚽️ Midfield… Ollie Stuart
Captain and very vocal leader of the team. Ollie is a box to box player and has the energy to run all day. Creative on the ball and opponents will be wary of him in 50/50 challenges. Must learn to curb his natural aggression or could fall foul to a red card.
⚽️ Midfielder… Molly Fletcher
A celebration for the Fletcher family when Molly was called up alongside younger brother Cozmo. The midfield schemer has a delightful first touch and a wide range of passing ability. Despite her small frame not afraid of getting stuck in when needed.
⚽️ Left wing… Pablo Davies
This fast pacy winger oozes class and is always looking to get down the line at every opportunity.
Stylish and elegant, Pablo could be the star of this World Cup if he believed more in his own ability. A defenders nightmare when on form.
⚽️ Centre Forward… Snoopy Smith
Come on leaps and bounds over the last year and now bubbling with confidence. Has the rare ability of sniffing out a goal from nothing and does it all in an understated fashion. Definitely one to watch.
⚽️ Right Wing… Charlie Fitzroy
Controversial choice amongst fans and pundits alike, seen by many as too lightweight. But Uncle Gary has complete faith in Charlie to turn the tide of public opinion. Quiet but effective with a lovely turn of speed and has the ability to turn defenders inside out.
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This then is Uncle Gary’s team who arrived in Qatar this week.
Seen as the underdogs this time last year, an intense training regime and some tough love has now seen them installed as the bookies’ favourites to finally bring home the World Cup after 56 years of hurt.
🏁 Flags will be flying from cars, banners draped from houses and the whole country will be getting behind these pedigree champions. Be proud of our pooches! 🏆
Written by ‘Uncle’ Gary – Team Manager and ever dependable Digs for Dogs host.
