Meat feast as Wallabies thump French

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THE five-minute captaincy trauma of hobbling Stephen Moore last night fast-tracked Michael Hooper into a rousing taste of Test leadership he is likely to keep for a full-series assault on the shell-shocked French.

Captaincy of the Wallabies was tentatively sketched for two years from now for flanker Hooper not after the single minute it took for Moore to cop a cruel twisted knee at Suncorp Stadium.

The Wallabies did not miss a beat with Hooper's follow-me style at the forefront of a resounding four-try, 29-9 statement by half-time and a 50-23 victory by the final whistle.

Fullback Israel Folau was a menace from his first 30m dash into the fractured French defence off a slick Bernard Foley cutout ball, prop James Slipper was superb in his 50th Test and debutant lock Sam Carter was a worthy physical and tackling presence.

Hooper was all tackling, driving, stout-legged running and breakdown energy. If he'd been wearing a French jersey, he would have been a blond, long-haired reincarnation of Jean-Pierre Rives, the wonderful flanker for Les Bleus in the 1970s and '80s.

Coach Ewen McKenzie said he sent out a message for Hooper to be captain ahead of fellow vice-captain Adam Ashley-Cooper although Hooper had a more playful spin.

"'Coopy' said I was closer to (referee) Craig (Joubert) and said 'You can have the job'. I said 'thank you'," Hooper said.

"Stephen put in such a good platform in the lead-up that it was just 'heads down and let's get going' for us all."

The impressive Wallabies did just that. They scored just six tries in as many Tests on home soil last season when they lost four of them.

They had scored that many by the 68th minute last night when McKenzie's promise that running rugby would be his side's calling card was invigoratingly true. A fifth straight win for the Wallabies is their best streak since the first five Tests of Robbie Deans' reign in 2008.

Hooker Moore badly twisted his left knee in an awkward tackle on French flanker Bernard le Roux inside the opening minute.

Moore wanted his 92nd Test to be a memorable one as leader of his country for the first time. Medical staff spent more than two minutes summing up his situation before strapping his left knee on the captain's demand.

He hobbled back into position but the crowd of 33,718 shared his pain as it quickly became apparent he would not be able to play on.

He helped out with two tackles close to the ruck before the tough decision to leave the field was made after just five minutes because he was playing on one leg.

Moore headed to scans post-match but with a medial ligament strain he is certain to be ruled out of the second Test in Melbourne and the third Test in Sydney on June 21.

Nick Cummins bagged some "meat" in the second half. Source: News Corp Australia

Hooper's first stamp as a captain was to attack rather than take an early pot at penalty goal. Folau's 11th Test try came with a lovely pirouettte out of tackle but it was set up by Slipper surging around No.8 Wycliff Palu and popping a pass fit for a five-eighth.

"He is a class player," France coach Philippe Saint-Andre said of the fullback. "He's a match-winner. He showed that tonight. "Australia were very strong in contact and won 70-80 per cent of the collisions.

"They were physical with a lot of urgency, and we panicked too much."

The best of the Wallabies tries was artful and full of clever angles. Inside centre Matt Toomua and Adam Ashley-Cooper threw sharp passes and Folau's well-timed run was finished by a switch to Nick Cummins.

"Seven tries is a good indicator of our intentions. I wanted a statement to reward the players for what they have put in this week," McKenzie said.

"Stephen's injury is definitely a medial ligament. What level we don't know and being slightly older the knee is going to be a bit looser.

"Very disappointing for him. You don't lie in bed at night imagining that is going to happen.

"Tatafu Polota-Nau did a great job coming in (for 75 minutes). Solving problems is what Test rugby is all about."

On his new Nic White-Bernard Foley partnership and Carter's strong debut, McKenzie was succinct: "Everyone did a good job and Sam's display was no surprise to me...he likes the physical parts and goes the 80-minutes."

A French deflection added Ashley-Cooper's try and Hooper's own touchdown was only awarded by South African referee Craig Joubert after video evidence convinced him to backflipped on his initial thought that a creative tap-on by centre Tevita Kuridrani had gone forward.

French wing debutant Felix le Bourhis fumbled the ball three times on his tryline from a poor pass on half-time to gift Toomua his try. It summed up a largely limp French effort that was hinted by a less than rousing singing of their famous anthem before kick-off.

Halfback Nic White's pass was long and precise and Foley was very good in terms of taking the ball to the line and directing.

Hitting 50 points impressively topped the 48-31 win over the 1990 French side at Ballymore as the highest total against Les Bleus on Australian soil.

It was focused, hungry and breathed team throughout.

Late in the game, Kurtley Beale came in off the bench, threw a nice long ball to Kuridrani and backed up inside for the seventh try.

The Wallabies scrum was good early when the biggest questions were going to be asked. French prop and captain Nicolas Mas was twice penalised.

Less inspiring was the second-string Wallaby front-row, with Pek Cowan and Paddy Ryan as props, splintering on full-time and conceded a penalty try to the French

The tourists ran from their own quarter in the opening 60 seconds but the French resistance was smashed by half-time with clinical try-strikes and some luck.

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French slaughter just the ticket

Michael Hooper is likely to assume the captaincy for the remainder of the series. Source: Mark Nolan / Getty Images

AS they do in most matches, the French won the national anthem.

But from there, they always looked to be trailing a rather distant second.

Both the means and the result were precisely what the Wallabies, and rugby, needed to kick off the international season.

A victory and four tries would have been a satisfactory outcome after 80 minutes. But considering the half-time break had one looking a formality, and the other already completed, the occasion delivered more than could have been expected.

It was the stuff of a team that looks to have two vital components — talent in the ranks and purpose in their execution.

Their tries all contained elements which will have thrilled the coaching team. The most vital aspects were the support play, the awareness of the support and the off-loading that allowed that support to turn execution into points.

In recent seasons, at both provincial and international level, Australian teams have been a significant distance behind New Zealand sides in their off-loading ability.

With defences now so organised and disciplined, if a team is limited in the offload area their win-loss record will look very sickly.

The Wallabies appeared to be a side that have done a lot of work in this area, and the fact it paid off so handsomely will undoubtedly encourage them to do more.

In his 50th Test, Queensland Red James Slipper was a standout among the pack and debutant Sam Carter also indicated that he fits comfortably in the big time.

Kurtley Beale (L) came off the bench and scored a try in the second half. Source: Getty Images

But the man who made the most significant contribution was inside centre Matt Toomua.

One would be loathe to start throwing out comparisons with Tim Horan, but I'm not sure if any Wallaby No.12 since Horan was running around has contributed more to a win than Toomua did in the 63 minutes he was on the field.

His passing, both short and long, was impeccable, his vision and awareness of the players around him was precisely what is required of a world-class inside centre, defensively he was a rock and his ability to be in the right place at the right time suggests he learnt enormously from his time on the European tour last year.

An inside centre is clearly going to be reliant on what his halves deliver, and to that end the slightly controversial pairing of Nic White and Bernard Foley delivered as Ewen McKenzie might have hoped.

The depth that is needed for a successful international side is clearly beginning to emerge.

While McKenize is not one to get overly carried away after either the first or last game of the season, I'm sure he will have allowed himself a quiet smile behind closed doors on Saturday night.

The Australian cricket team were guests at the match and there will be hope the Wallabies can build on their first Test of the season, just as Michael Clarke's mob did after their win at the Gabba last November.

A reality check though. As they often are when they are away from home, the French's strongest area was their lethargy. The contest at the breakdown was, by and large, no contest.

The Wallabies won't have that luxury against the Springboks, Pumas and All Blacks in The Rugby Championship and may even be a different scenario in Melbourne next week.

France of one week can be completely different to France of the previous. For their growth, that is probably what this Wallaby side needs to confront.

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Inglis injured as wounded Rabbits fire

Rabbitoh Greg Inglis in the hands of the trainers with an ankle injury. Source: Daniel Wilkins / News Limited

GREG Inglis is in huge doubt for Origin II after suffering an ankle injury in South Sydney's epic 34-18 win over the Warriors on Saturday night.

The injury occurred in the dying stages of the first half, when the Maroons centre attempted to tackle Warriors powerhouse Manu Vatuvei.

Teammate Sam Burgess was also involved in the tackle and landed on Inglis' right knee which resulted in Inglis hobbling off the field.

George Burgess on the turf after a crunching tackle. Source: News Limited

Inglis will have scans on Sunday but early indication from the dressing sheds is that Inglis has suffered a syndesmosis of the ankle.

The Warriors lead 10-6 at halftime, with the Bunnies soon losing Bryson Goodwin to a shoulder issue.

Yet despite the injuries which saw Jason Clark leave the field with concussion, the home side rallied.

Dylan Walker starred scoring two tries as did Dave Tyrrell in a reshuffled backline.

More to come ...

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Dugan takes the centre stage

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JOSH Dugan watched the Blues courageous Origin I victory on TV from the comfort of his lounge room, but after starring as one half of the St George Illawarra double act alongside Benji Marshall last night, the Dragons star revealed last night how desperate he is to be part of State of Origin history in 10-days time.

Both Dugan and Marshall were instrumental in the Dragons crushing local derby victory over an injury-ravaged Cronulla.

Benji Marshall finds space with Josh Dugan in support. Source: News Limited

Marshall, who sealed his first NRL win since August last year, had a hand in five of the Dragons six tries, with Dugan the recipient of a rare hat-trick of four-pointers that suggested he is the man to solve NSW coach Laurie Daley's right centre vacancy for the Blues.

Enjoying a glut of possession against a Sharks side missing 13 regular first graders, Marshall reached into his old bag of tricks to pull out the gold he had been searching almost a month for.

josh Dugan celebrates try number three. Source: News Limited

While his struggling opposition resembled at-times nothing more than shadows, Marshall's punchy kicking game, no-look passes and confidence in directing the Dragons around the paddock was the performance that repaid his $1.1m price tag.

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The key for the Kiwi International is to back it up against better opposition than what he played on Saturday night.

The Dragons lopsided victory, coming after four straight losses, also marked Paul McGregor's first two-points as head coach of the club.

Josh Dugan celebrates scoring one of his three tries for the Dragons. Source: News Limited

Dugan, playing at right centre for Saints, could do nothing more to impress Daley.

His first two tries were all strength and power, muscling his frame past defenders to land over the stripe before climbing high above his opposition to pull down a pinpoint Marshall kick for his third try a 24-0 nil scoreline.

Asked if he was up to the challenge of filling the Origin void left by injured Blues and Bulldogs centre Josh Morris, Dugan replied: "Yeah, I think so.

"It's up to Loz (Daley) and the selectors, but I definitely haven't hurt my chances and I've just got to wait for selection.

Adam Quinlan is tackled by Blake Ayshford. Source: Getty Images

"I'm going to go back and have a look at the video and see what I can improve on, but if that call does come I'm definitely going to put my best foot forward and do my best for the state.

"It would mean the world. That's something you strive for as a player, to be at the best of your game and get picked in the side because it's the best players in the state and to be on that big stage.

"It's (playing centre) only going to get better as well helping me out is Mary (McGregor) and helping me is Matt Cooper as well, so it's definitely something I'm looking at keeping on improving on, but I feel comfortable at the moment.''

Nathan Stapleton is tackled by the Dragons defence. Source: News Limited

Dugan laughed when asked if he had used McGregor a member of the Blues coaching staff to persuade Daley into picking him when the team is announced on Tuesday.

"Nah, I've just been focused on my game and improving,'' Dugan said.

"I watched (Origin I) at home, it was a good game and a tough game. When B-Moz (Brett Morris) tackled Darius in that last play, I was up out of my chair, I'm definitely passionate and would definitely love to be back there.''

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While Marshall described his own game as a 'confidence building' and a 'step in the right direction' he showered Dugan in rare praise by labelling him a "superstar".

"He could play in any position on the field,'' Marshall said.

Josh Dugan makes a break. Source: Getty Images

"The lines he runs, just how strong he is, good defender, he can catch anything in the air and I thought we built from that last week.

"I knew myself it (own game) was going to take time, but I've been working hard the last few weeks to get back. We've definitely still got a lot of work to do.''

The Sharks were valiant in defeat, their debutants Fa'amanu Brown and Jacob Gagan offered promise, but in reality this was a match that without more half their salary cap, they were never going to win.

ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA 30 (J Dugan 3 G Beale 2 P Mata'utia tries G Widdop 3 goals) bt CRONULLA 0 at WIN Stadium. Referee: Gavin Badger, Chris James. Crowd: 12,079

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Zephyron to test his stamina

Zephyron will race at 2400m for the first time in today's Brisbane Cup. Source: Jonathon Searle / News Corp Australia

SYDNEY'S promising galloper Zephyron is a rising six-year-old by an influential staying sire, yet he is only going to 2400m for the first time in the Group 2 $300,000 Brisbane Cup at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Zabeel is the sire of so many champion stayers, including Melbourne Cup winners Might And Power (1997), Jezabeel (1998) and Efficient (2007), so it is unusual that Zephyron has not been tested over a staying distance.

But this is a reflection of the injury problems Zephyron had early in his race career that has restricted the gelding to just 15 race starts so far and also his emergence under Team Hawkes this season.

Zephyron, bought for $2 million as a yearling, goes into the Brisbane Cup after ­impressive wins in the Lord Mayors Cup at Rosehill (2000m) and the Premier's Cup (2200m) at Doomben.

"When he came to us all he ­wanted to do was be a 1000m horse,'' co-trainer Michael Hawkes said. "With patience and time he has turned the corner and is working like a stayer now.

"This horse has done a ­sensational job this season and deserves his chance (today),'' he added.

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Cherry ripe after wicked knock in win

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DALY Cherry-Evans may never come off an Origin bench again.

For so long the 'Super Sub' of Queensland and Australian sides, Cherry-Evans now looks set to officially begin his representative reign after Friday night walking away from what Bananabenders are calling a 130kg assassination attempt.

Daly Cherry Evans of the Sea Eagles leaves the field injured. Source: Getty Images

Apart from orchestrating a 32-10 demolition of Canterbury at Brookvale Oval, the Manly halfback also survived a controversial tackle from Canterbury prop Sam Kasiano four minutes into the second half.

Despite hobbling from the field after the hit, which Manly coach Geoff Toovey labelled "illegal", DCE insisted he would be ready for Origin II at ANZ Stadium on Wednesday week.

He will, however, still go for scans on Saturday.

Speaking after the game, the playmaker told reporters: "I'm confident it will be right. I will rest up, take it easy and things should be sweet".

Bulldogs James Graham after being tackled in the mud. Source: News Corp Australia

And so NSW coach Laurie Daley will shudder slightly.

Watching on from the grandstand, Daley was given a first hand look at the fella pencilled in to replace regular Maroons seven Cooper Cronk, who broke his arm in the series opener. And who knows when, if ever again, DCE will ever give said jersey up?

Manly's Jesse Sene-Lefao scores a try. Source: News Corp Australia

Apart from playing a lead hand in two tries, Cherry-Evans also set up field position for their third with a kicking game that was outstanding for all the first half.

Indeed, here was a performance where it seemed only an act of God - think tornados, cyclones, maybe a flash flood - could stop the tearaway Maroon.

Enter Kasiano.

Manly's Brenton Lawrence is tackled by Bulldogs Trent Hodkinson and Tony Williams. Source: News Corp Australia

With only four minutes gone in the second half, and Cherry-Evans attempting a kick downfield, the Bulldogs prop launched himself only one blink after the ball was gone. Well, maybe a little later.

Regardless, weighing in at 130kg - or slightly more if you include the sparrows apparently nesting in his beard - the goliath came tearing through and launched in a movement that would moments later see him on report.

Manly's Kieran Foran is tackled by Bulldogs Trent Hodkinson. Source: News Corp Australia

"Although I thought it was okay,'' Bulldogs coach Des Haslet said afterwards.

"There was nothing malicious or dangerous about it.

"He (Kasiano) started around his waist, both arms went around, and he caught him in line with the momentum of the kick."

Bulldogs winger Mitch Brown scores a try. Source: News Corp Australia

Manly five-eighth Kieran Foran saw it slightly differently, saying: "I was worried for him because it didn't look good.

"But I don't really want to comment because it's just one of those things I guess. Kasiano did wrap his arms, he was trying to apply pressure ... it's one where Daly jumps to kick and they get him in a nasty position".

Yet regardless of how you viewed it, there was no doubting it brought an end to what had been a master class from the Sea Eagles seven.

Manly's Brett Stewart celebrates after scoring a try. Source: News Corp Australia

Teaching Rugby League: 101 on a night where Manly winger Jorge Taufua was also placed on report, and centre Jamie Lyon suffered a grade one hamstring strain.

And it was a lesson that began, on the scoreboard anyway, with 29 minutes gone.

Grubbering the ball behind the Bulldogs defensive line, the Cherry-Evans then gave chase and toed the ball ahead again - keeping such control over the Steeden you could believe he were responsible for it bouncing up and through the arms of sliding Bulldogs winger Krisnan Inu.

And guess who was there to collect it?

Manly's Steve Matai takes a hit-up. Source: News Corp Australia

With the ball rising perfectly into his arms, DCE then sent it one pass wide for centre Steve Matai.

Seven minutes later, the Queensland superstar was at it again, this time making a break down the right touchline before finding centre Jamie Lyon, who himself found winger Peta Hiku for a try.

Oh yeah, in between Cherry-Evans had also produced a perfect grubber that, forcing a repeat, set up both the position and possession required for Sea Eagles interchange forward Jesse Sene-Lefao to crash over.

MANLY 32 (B Stewart 2 P Hiku S Matai J Sene-Lefao tries J Lyon 6 goals) bt BULLDOGS 10 (M Brown C Stanley tries T Hodkinson goal) at Brookvale Oval. Referee: Gerard Sutton, Gavin Morris. Crowd: 9,235.

Re-live the action in our blog below:

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Selwood, Cats break spirited Blues’ heart

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GEELONG bounce back from losses as routinely as a morning shuffle to the toilet.

But there was nothing routine about Friday night's drama-charged five-point win over Carlton.

The Cats pulled off football's version of grand larceny, stealing the four points from the Blues when they were all but laid flat on the canvas.

Denis Armfield kicks the loose ball away from Steve Johnson. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

In a contest that had just about everything, Geelong trailed by 16 points half way through the last quarter and by one point with 70 seconds left when the symbolic moment arrived.

Joel Selwood, muzzled superbly and without influence by the exceptional Bryce Gibbs, gobbled up a loose ball and goaled superbly on the run from 40m to win the game.

Bryce Gibbs played one of his best ever games, booting four goals from 29 disposals and keeping Selwood quiet. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Carlton won back some respect last night, but rarely would they have walked off as heartbroken. So good for so long, they became the latest in a long line of sides in recent times to have the rug pulled out from under them by this never-say-die outfit.

"We were probably lucky in the end," Selwood said later.

Carlton's Zach Tuohy only had 10 touches. Source: News Corp Australia

"If you're not having a great night you don't need to have a really bad night. The way the boys rallied at the end was really important

"We haven't been in a situation like that for a while. It will be good going forward for us. We were probably ready to play about three days ago, it was tough last week but we had to move on."

Steven Motlop celebrates after his special checkside goal on the run in the second term. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

The Blues were on from the start and lead by nine points at quarter time, but were put back on their heels in the second by a rampant Tom Hawkins who kicked four for the term to inspire his side to 19-point lead at the main break.

The Cats lead by 24 points 12 minutes into the third when Carlton exploded to life. The Blues rammed on six unanswered goals and will again curse a glut of missed opportunities that would have put Geelong away.

Dale Thomas inspired his side in the third quarter with two goals. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Gibbs was immense. He ran hard, used it well, ripped balls from stoppages and kicked goals. He finished with 29 touches and four goals, thrashing Selwood for first three quarters before being let loose in the last.

His fourth goal, an arcing snap from a stoppage with a handful of minutes left looked to have won the game for the Blues.

Hawkins kicked four, all of them in that red-hot second quarter, when brutalised Sam Rowe. Hawkins had 17 disposals and 10 marks and looked like a men among boys.

James Kelly accumulated 27 disposals, the most of any Cat. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Jason Dunstall summed up the domination perfectly on Triple M: "He is just ignoring tackles, Tom Hawkins."

The sides were evenly matched for disposals, contested ball, tackles and inside 50s, but the Blues ticked so many boxes they won't have slept well last night.

Selwood was well held until his match-defining heroics and Steve Johnson was blanketed by Andrew Carrazzo.

Nothing could stop T om Hawkins in the third quarter. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

But when the Blues had the ascendancy early in the last term, crucial misses from Andrew Walker, Sam Docherty and Jeff Garlett came back to haunt them.

While the Blues ran and spread with venom, they lacked efficiency going forward, which was where the Cats thrived.

With the door ajar, George Horlin-Smith's front and centre snap with less than two minutes left cut the Blues' lead to one point.

Enter Selwood.

BEST

Geelong: Hawkins, Stokes, Kelly, Taylor, Guthrie, Horlin-Smith, Enright

Carlton: Gibbs, Walker, Murphy, Simpson, Yarran, Thomas, Carrazzo, Docherty

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Do cracks signal end of Cats’ dynasty?

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IS Geelong a fading force?

It will be a hotly debated topic.

While the Cats never-say-die spirit eventually prevailed last night, there were signs of their inability to dominate in the manner of the past.

MATCH: SELWOOD, CATS BREAK SPIRITED BLUES' HEART

While Carlton's intensity was outstanding and, more importantly, consistent for almost four quarters, Geelong was often reduced to mediocrity last night.

Tom Hawkins finds himself under pressure from Michael Jamison. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

The Cats of the past several seasons, for instance, rarely let their opponents slam on six unanswered goals. Prime movers Joel Selwood and Steve Johnson again struggled to make a sustained impact. The onball efforts were left to James Kelly and the less experienced Cam Guthrie and George Horlin-Smith.

How often would Johnson and Selwood walk to a quarter-time huddle with just three touches between them?

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It's more than six seasons since Selwood had only one possession in an opening term which illustrated the Blues' competitiveness at the centre contests and pressure on the ball carrier.

And Johnson couldn't find anywhere to run to shake off Andrew Carrazzo's tag.

The attacking reliance on Tom Hawkins was unhealthy, with the spread of goalkickers nowhere near as wide as when the Cats are on song.

Tom Hawkins is mobbed after his fourth goal. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Hawkins grabbed four marks in the first 10 minutes. But it didn't trouble the Carlton defence as all were well out of range of goal.

The powerhouse forward became a more dangerous target once the Cats started to flick the ball around with their trademark run and carry style in the second term.

He slotted four goals from contested marks, the last after the half-time siren to stretch Geelong's lead to 19 points.

You could sense the Cats confidence and self-belief rising with a more bold approach after the stuttering first term.

Mitch Duncan chases the loose footy. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

And that flair was back when Mathew Stokes took a mark within range, but handballed off to the running Steve Motlop. Under plenty of heat, Motlop threw the ball onto the outside of his right boot for an audacious banana goal.

Normally, such an act of brilliance would signal a Geelong burst that would blow their opponents away. Instead the Cats ground away and eventually pinched the match.

While Geelong won't mind having to win ugly, it will hope the team can reclaim its mojo when it returns to Simonds Stadium against St Kilda tomorrow week.

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$37 for a pizza? Welcome to Rio

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WORLD Cup visitors, welcome to Brazil, land of soccer, sun and sky-high prices.

Unlike nearby Latin American nations where a tourist's U.S.

dollar or European Union euro seemingly stretches forever, Brazil is astoundingly expensive.

If one's budget isn't immediately busted by the flight or the hotel, it will soon be done in by the $10 caipirinha cocktail, the $18 cheeseburger or the $37 pepperoni pizza. And those are the prices city-dwelling Brazilians saw even before the World Cup set off a new standard of sticker shock.

"Prices in Rio are absurd," Maria Anda, a Norwegian artist who has lived in Brazil for a year, said while enjoying the sunset on Ipanema beach. "I still like it. It's worth being here, but it's not paradise."

The dizzying prices are referred to here as the "Custo Brasil," or "Brazil Cost" — the mixture of high taxes and steep import tariffs, combined with bad infrastructure, a dose of inefficiency and a thick shot of bureaucracy.

Demand leading up to a big event like the World Cup naturally raises prices. But, since costs already were high to begin with, tourists should prepare to dig deep into their wallets and not be too miffed to receive goods or services of inferior quality, said Rafael Alcadipani, a business administration professor at the Getulio Vargas Foundation, Brazil's top think tank.

"Anything you buy in Brazil will be more expensive than in the United States or Europe, but the quality is going to be worse," Alcadipani said.

Hotel rates in many of the World Cup host cities more than doubled ahead of the tournament. Massachusetts-based TripAdvisor reports visitors to Rio will face the highest prices, with hotel rates averaging $445 per night. Add in food and other expenses, and Rio travellers should prepare to spend $682 each day.

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Next costliest are Fortaleza and Manaus, where average daily expenses are estimated at $602 and $554, respectively. Even the more affordable host cities will set travellers back a good amount: $457 per day in Cuiaba and $477 in Sao Paulo.

"The Cup prices are ridiculous. Everything shot up. The only thing you can buy in Brazil is a bikini, a cachaca (Brazilian sugar cane liquor) and a pair of Havaianas (sandals)," said Gillian Santos, a Brazilian who now lives in Belgium and was back in Rio on a recent visit. "How do people afford things around here? As a Brazilian living abroad, I think it's outrageous."

Experts say prices are kept high because supply can't keep up with demand. About 40 million Brazilians — a fifth of the population — joined the middle class in the past decade, on the back of strong economic growth and increased government social programs. Between 2009 and 2012, average annual income rose by more than 40 per cent, from $8,140 to $11,630, according to the World Bank. For many, the new affluence sparked a spending spree.

Brazil tries to protect its local industries by charging high tariffs on virtually all imported goods. For travellers who lose or forget an item, they might decide to do without rather than pay local prices.

Take iPhones: The unblocked 5s that costs $649 in the U.S. has a starting price of $1,250 on Apple's Brazilian website. Need a pair of running shoes? A pair of the popular Nike Flyknit Lunar 2 runs about $313 at a Rio shopping mall — nearly triple the U.S. price.

The examples go on. Levi 501 jeans start at $80. The $6.28 Big Mac is among the most expensive in the world. Shaving cream, soap, tissues, aspirin — all are double to triple the prices found elsewhere.

"Everything is expensive," said Nadir Fraguas, a retired bank employee who was at a Rio mall pondering whether to spend the equivalent of more than $100 on a Brazil national team jersey for her grandson. "Clothing, cars and food ... Here, you pay a lot and you get very little. Prices were already high, but now they're impossible."

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Hockeyroos squeeze past gallant Belgium

The Hockeyroos celebrate the decisive goal against Belgium. Source: Patrick Post / AP

THE Hockeyroos won their third successive match at the World Cup in The Hague with a 3-2 victory over Belgium.

Two goals from Jodie Kenny, including one from the penalty spot, and an Anna Flanagan penalty corner flick ensured the Hockeyroos took a maximum three points and maintained their perfect record at the tournament.

But it was far from easy for the Hockeyroos, who welcomed back captain Madonna Blyth from injury for her first game of the tournament.

Coach Adam Commens said he believed missed chances early in the game had contributed to a tight contest later on.

"We began the game very well. First 15, 20 minutes, we had a lot of opportunities and I think, in that moment, you need to take them and score two or three goals and the match is put to bed," Commens said.

"We were unable to do that, which is a little frustrating as a coach.

"After that, I thought Belgium played very well. It's a team that we knew is a little tricky.

"On the flipside, I thought our ball handling was as bad as I've seen it in a number of years and we weren't good in the second half. We will need to be much better than that against the Netherlands."

Blyth, who missed the opening two games with a calf injury, said it was good to be back playing.

"It's felt like a long time sitting on the bench watching but really happy to get out there today.

"It was a tough match and I feel like my leg's pulled up fine so [I'm] looking forward to having a bit more of an impact in the next games."

The Hockeyroos next play World Cup hosts and Olympic champions the Netherlands on Saturday night (EST).

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Unheralded defence must stand strong

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ALEX Wilkinson, your time is now. Time to show the boss that your nerves since coming into the national team squad are just that, and that now you are able to play like you usually do on the biggest stage.

Matthew Spiranovic, the apprenticeship is over. Always the great young hope, now you are the senior partner in this back four.

Jason Davidson and Ivan Franjic, you have the opportunity to become Socceroos first choices for a decade. The coach has faith in you – can you deliver?

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One thing Saturday's friendly with Croatia can deliver is a verdict on the back four that Ange Postecoglou has assembled. If there is a degree of excitement about the options going forward, it's the rearguard that can feel a national concern washing over it.

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Injuries are part of it – Curtis Good and Rhys Williams are missing and probably would have started.

Wilkinson – so long the epitome of A-League solidity, part of the most miserly defence around at the Mariners before switching to Korea – gets a chance he never expected.

Ryan McGowan and Alex Wilkinson are battling for the final centreback spot. Source: AFP

His former teammates in Gosford could never understand why he was neglected, but now he has to make up for lost time – by marking Mario Mandžukić who just happens to play for Bayern Munich, and proving to Postecoglou that he should stay in the side that will face Chile in the World Cup a week later.

Franjic and Davidson have a double burden, for in this system of Postecoglou's they must be auxiliary attackers as well as doubling back when defending demands it.

After this game there are just five more training sessions to fine tune the Australian strategy. Which is why the side's defence needs to show now that it is ready for coming storms, against world-class attacks.

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Meet Power giant’s secret ruck weapon

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THERE were only two weeks between Aaron Greaves' appointment as Port Adelaide's new ruck coach and the start of preseason.

But when Matthew Lobbe first met the man who would guide his progression to the elite ranks of AFL ruckmen it was clear Greaves had done his homework.

"We caught up outside the club," Lobbe said.

"He'd already prepared a lot of stuff and watched a lot of vision. He came to me with some stuff to work on straight away and it's been like that since."

The pair immediately went to work on breaking down the technical aspects of Lobbe's role at balls ups and throw ins, expanding his knowledge of the unique traits of all the other ruckmen in the competition and how best to combat them.

"I'm really big with being planned and organised and having attention to detail," Greaves said.

"It's really important in footy because you're so time poor."

Matthew Lobbe, right, training with Aaron Greaves. Picture: Sarah Reed.

This level of preparation wouldn't surprise anyone that's worked with the 36 year old during his coaching career - from Nathan Buckley in the Victorian under-age system to Mark Neeld and Neil Craig at Melbourne.

But it wasn't always the case for Greaves, who by his own description was a lazy footballer in his late teens at St Joseph's College in Geelong.

The 197cm key forward was a late developer but says he missed the chance to play AFL because his work ethic wasn't where it needed to be.

"I didn't work hard enough early enough and didn't understand what it took," Greaves said.

"And that's one thing that has made me a better coach, I now appreciate how hard you have to work and hopefully it comes across with the guys I work with."

Greaves had a successful playing career in the VFL with North Ballarat and Geelong and had three AFL clubs interested in picking him up as a rookie when he was 24.

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But that was when the age limit for the rookie list was 23 years and nine months. Despite asking the AFL for special dispensation, his dream went unfulfilled.

Greaves stepped back to the Geelong Football League, playing under Neeld at St Joseph's.

He finished a teaching degree and when Neeld was appointed coach of the Western Jets in the TAC Cup was ushered into the senior coaching position.

Still only 25, Greaves turned back the clock as a playing-coach and after a steep learning curve led St Joey's to a Grand Final in his second season.

He ended up spending six years coaching in the GFL before taking the reins of the Geelong Falcons in the TAC Cup.

Now intent on pursuing a career in the caper, Greaves took a position in development at the Victorian Institute of Sport where he worked with top level athletes including Paralympic gold medal winning long jumper Kelly Cartwright.

"Combining the two was tough going for a few years, but you've got to do the hard yards," Greaves said.

"That, with my teaching background, gave me a really good grounding to get started.

"Not being a 200 game AFL player with a name, I needed a point of difference."

Greaves got his opportunity in the big league when Neeld was appointed senior coach at Melbourne.

He started as a ruck coach before moving into the midfield in his second season.

The two year stint - which saw the Demons lose club great Jim Stynes to cancer, indigenous talent Liam Jurrah to the bush and 38 of the 44 games they played - was certainly a baptism of fire.

"There were so many things that happened," Greaves said.

"No coaching course could give you the skills to deal with that. It was a great learn as we go type thing for me."

Neeld's sacking and the signing of Paul Roos left Greaves looking for another opportunity - one he received when Ken Hinkley came calling at the end of last year.

Hinkley needed a replacement for outgoing development coach Daniel Healy and ruck coach Shaun Rehn and headhunted Greaves, who he knew from his time coaching Bell Park in the GFL.

Greaves had a young family to consider, but with the support of wife Rebecca decided to head to South Australia.

"After a pretty tough first two years at Melbourne, where there wasn't a lot of reward for effort and enjoyment in what you did ... to come here and really believe in the direction we're going and to learn from really experienced coaches and quality people, I've been happy everyday," Greaves said.

It's a signing which is proving fruitful for the Power.

Lobbe is fulfilling the promise he showed at the end of last season and has entered the All-Australian discussion as the midpoint of the season approaches.

"It's been great to be able to challenge him on some of the outside perceptions of his game which he probably hadn't heard," said Greaves, who has found a willing partner in Lobbe.

"He's a leader, he wants to be good and he's a real competitor, so for me it's about facilitating the program rather than actually having to drive it."

THE MENTORS

The five biggest influences on Aaron Greaves' coaching career

GERALD FITZGERALD (North Ballarat, VFL)

"From 18 to 22 I was immature and a bit of a lost soul and unsure where I was heading. Gerard is an ex-teacher and pushed really hard for me to get into university and start a teaching degree."

RON WATT (Geelong, VFL)

"The big thing I learnt from him was the relationship he had with players. How forging trust allows you to educate."

MARK NEELD (St Joey's/Melbourne)

"He really helped guide me during my first few years as a coach and then obviously gave me my first opportunity at AFL level."

NATHAN BUCKLEY (Victorian Country under-16s)

"I was his assistant and had a really strong relationship with him during that time. He really encouraged me to pursue coaching and gave me strong feedback on areas where I needed to get better."

NEIL CRAIG (Melbourne)

"I don't know if Port people will like hearing about Neil Craig having a big influence, but he's got such a wealth of knowledge and a great understanding of the game and where it's going."

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Mere numbers don’t do Kouta justice

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TO watch Anthony Koutoufides lope around the football field was an experience of beauty, one where he sometimes appeared to be playing to his own rules.

A laconic style belied a rare gift where he could change the course of games, and he could do so by playing in any position on the ground.

RICHARDSON: I WAS SELFISH, BUT ONLY ONCE

VERSATILE JOHNNON FLAGLESS YET RELENTLESS

He was assisted by a 191cm and 97kg build and a junior athletics career where he was Australian U17 champion in the 110m hurdles (14.18 sec, record) and U16 high jump champion (2.08cm). But those athletic gifts didn't ensure he could get the football.

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In "Kouta's" case he could do so one-handed, a signature movement at stoppages that became his speciality. On his day, and there were many days, he was able to accumulate large numbers of significant possession in quick time.

When you watched him he ensured you left the game fully aware of his skill set, making it all the more remarkable he was only named All-Australia twice and was rewarded with just two Robert Reynolds trophies as Carlton's best and fairest.

Koutoufides with his family: wife Susie, Jamie 11, Monique 9, Lukas 3. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

Or maybe he was one of those players who couldn't be measured by statistics. After all Gary Ablett Sr won just one best and fairest at Geelong and like Koutoufides never seriously challenged in a Brownlow Medal count.

If "Kouta" was going to win a Brownlow then it would have been in 2000 when he entered the award a hot favourite only to finish five votes behind shock winner Shane Woewodin. It was a season where he played regularly on the ball, 12 years after he first played junior football at Carlton.

PORT ADELAIDE A 'WAY OF LIFE' FOR TREDREA

"Our property steward, Wayne 'Bulldog' Gilbert, had seen me play at Lalor and got the club to send me a letter. The next year I played for Victoria in the U15s and WA had this man mountain called Glen Jakovich," recalls Koutoufides, 41, who was given 43, a number he liked because his mum Anna was born in 1943.

An emergency for the 1993 Grand Final after a promising season, he came of age in 1994 when coach David Parkin moved him to a wing. His size and athleticism meant he was thrown around the ground prior to that.

KOUTA IN PICTURES

"I couldn't get into the midfield because there were so many stars so I played the wing and liked it. Then I ended up playing as a midfielder which probably best suited my game," said the husband of Susie and father of son Jamie, 11, Monique, 9, and Lukas, 3.

It was on a wing where he helped destroy Geelong in the 1995 Grand Finals, casually picking up 31 possessions and being beaten by Greg Williams for the Norm Smith medal. The next year he took 18 marks in a home and way game against West Coast, at a time when you didn't pick up cheapies hanging across half-back as sides flooded forward.

MCLEOD'S PRIDE IS HAVING STAYED A TRUE CROW

Two seasons later he was the finest player in the land, averaging 30 possessions, nine marks and two goals per games between Rds 5-20. He regards the period between 1999-2001 as his best, when he was fit enough to meet his high standards.

"After that I got some injuries and the coach and game plan changed. 'Parko' (David Parkin) is a great mate of mine who taught me a lot about life but Wayne Brittain and Barry Mitchell were my two greatest mentors at Carlton. They understood me best.

Koutoufides with son Lukas 3. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

"I didn't flourish under Denis Pagan. I loved him when he coached me at Teal Cup but his game style stayed the same despite the game moving ahead. He had a wonderful career but his game plan was never going to work at that time."

The 1999 preliminary final will forever be etched in his mind, a match which he believes club President John Elliott produced the motivation.

AFL HONOURS LOYAL BLUES SKIPPER

"Essendon had thrashed us twice during the year but before that game John Elliott was walking around the rooms, and just kept saying he had this really good feeling," Koutoufides recalled.

"It started to spread around us. I played most of the game in the back pocket then got a few kicks in the last quarter when moved on the ball."

Stephen Kernahan still regards Koutoufides' final quarter as one of the best he's witnessed.

THE BEST

Seen: "Definitely Gary Ablett Sr. His marking, his aura, his ability to change a game so quickly. He mastered more facets of the game better than anyone."

Played with: "Greg Williams. A non-athlete with a huge heart and an advanced football brain. His handball was like a kick and you couldn't tell the difference between his left and right foot.

Played against: "Matthew Richardson was more gifted athletically and I couldn't keep up with him. His endurance was far advanced on mine."

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Teammate bond behind Tedesco backflip

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JAMES Tedesco's strong bond with the Wests Tigers playing roster, particularly stars Luke Brooks, Aaron Woods and Robbie Farah, was one of the driving reasons behind his backflip to stay with the club.

The Daily Telegraph can reveal Tedesco reported for training on Tuesday visibly distressed before talking to players and the club's coaching staff to convey his confusion.

TEDESCO'S $500,000 CANBERRA BACKFLIP

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Tedesco, who has played just 25 NRL games, then went for a coffee with Farah to further discuss his desire to turn his back on the lucrative Canberra deal he had signed for next season, before again meeting the Tigers skipper for further talks on Wednesday.

Once Tedesco had decided to exercise his right to pull out of the three-year Canberra contract, it was decided he needed to personally call Raiders coach Ricky Stuart to explain his reasoning.

On Fox Sports' NRL360, Farah confirmed he had advised a worried Tedesco about his future.

James Tedesco celebrates scoring a try. Source: News Corp Australia

"I spoke to the kid. I noticed at training that's he's been down the last few days," Farah said.

"I had a chat to him yesterday (Tuesday) and he confided in me and I told him to go away and think about things.

"He was finding it difficult to leave and as a mate and club captain I gave him my opinion and some advice.

"I told him if he was serious about changing his mind we'd obviously support him.

"It's a big decision and something he has to live by. At the end of the day he has followed his heart."

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Wide draw fails to faze Boss

Glen Boss wins the Doomben 10,000 on Srikandi. Source: Jonathon Searle / News Corp Australia

CHAMPION jockey Glen Boss and trainer Ciaron Maher aren't fazed by easing favourite Srikandi's barrier draw of 17 in Saturday's Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm.

Bookmakers reacted to the ugly draw by rolling Srikandi out with TAB easing the Victorian trained filly from $4 to $5.

Adelaide three-year-old gelding Hucklebuck firmed from $7 into $5 to be an equal favourite with Srikandi after drawing barrier one.

Boss said he wasn't concerned by the barrier and denied that he jumped off Rebel Dane to ride Srikandi.

He said Srikandi had enough early acceleration to put herself in the race and could handle any track conditions _ all ticks in the box.

"She will lob in the first four," he said.

Maker said when the emergencies were included that Srikandi would start from barrier 13.

Although Srikandi has led in her three Queensland wins, Maher said she didn't have to do that.

"She has enough early speed to overcome it. Whether we take advantage of that we'll do our form and take it from there," Maher said.

Boss believes the step up to open company and not the barrier was his biggest concern.

"I believe the market reacted too strongly to her winning last start and pushed her into favouritism against horses like Hucklebuck, Red Tracer and Rebel Dane and even John O'Shea's horse Knoydart that went super last start.

"I think they are overreacted to her because she is winning but you have to have a look at what she is beating and she is not beating much, but she is beating them easy."

Boss said he'd have no problems getting down to the 51kg weight and predicted the filly would finish either one, two or three.

"Whether she wins or not, I can't see her finishing any worse than third," he said.

Boss said he had a good feeling about riding Srikandi after her last win but wanted to study the weights first.

"I gave them the heads up and I'm very open about what I do," he said.

"The Srikandi people didn't know who I'd be riding and I kept them in the lurch too because I wanted to see the weights and they had no problems."

Boss said there was some confusion when the weight cames out but Gary Portelli had already booked Berry.

"I wish them all the best," he said.

"It doesn't last forever and I wasn't jumping off. I didn't jump off and I gave them 10 days' notice."

Boss said he had been loyal and had paid $600 for airfares to fly to Brisbane to ride Rebel Dane in work.

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SA superstars in footy Hall of Fame

Champions — Crows superstar Andrew McLeod and Port Adelaide premiership captain Warren Tredrea at the Australian Football Hall of Fame ceremony. Picture: Tony Gough. Source: Tony Gough / News Corp Australia

ANDREW McLeod and Warren Tredrea have claimed the greatest accolade for their resilience against near-crippling knee injuries with induction to the Australian Football Hall of Fame.

McLeod, arguably the greatest Crow, and Tredrea, the Power's first AFL premiership captain, were among the six inductees at the black-tie event in Melbourne on Wednesday night.

It is the first time since the Hall began in 1996 that both a former Crows and Power player earned induction on the same night.

Crows star Andrew McLeod left many players in his wake.

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McLeod is the fourth Crow in the Hall, following Brownlow Medallist Mark Ricciuto (2011), premiership captain Mark Bickley (2009) and Darren Jarman (2007). He is the first non-South Australian Crow in the Hall as he maintains his status as a Northern Territorian.

Tredrea is the first all-Power player in the Hall and follows inaugural Power captain Gavin Wanganeen (2010) who started his AFL career at Essendon.

The Hall also introduced modern-day heroes Matthew Richardson (Richmond), Brad Johnson (Western Bulldogs) and Anthony Koutoufides (Carlton) and West Australian Ern Henfry, who was captain of Carlton's 1947 premiership side.

McLeod was emotional last night as he wished he could have shared his induction with his mother, Marie, who died in 2013.

Andrew McLeod with the 1997 premiership cup. He was best-on-ground in the match. Source: News Limited

"This has to be one of the greatest achievements — and it is quite humbling," said McLeod, the Norm Smith Medallist as the best-afield in Adelaide's 1997-98 premiership double.

"To be considered worthy of being in the Hall of Fame is surreal."

Both McLeod and Tredrea earned selection on their first ballots. An AFL player must wait three years after his retirement to be inducted to the Hall of Fame.

Tredrea described his induction as "a huge honour" particularly when he recalls the players who retired in 2010.

"Thinking back to the players who went around with me at the 2010 grand final as retired players — Brad Johnson, Jason Akermanis, Ben Cousins, Simon Goodwin and Andrew McLeod — that is a fair bunch," Tredrea said. "To get in straight away is a nice recognition."

Both McLeod and Tredrea endured long-running battles with knee injuries to finish their careers with the games records at their clubs — McLeod with 340 games; Tredrea with 255.

Tredrea retired in 2010. Picture: Ray Titus

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McLeod had 13 operations after his right knee locked while in a contest for the ball with Richmond opponent Joel Bowden at Football Park in 1998. He recalled being almost in tears in 2002 when Crows club doctor, the late Brian Sando, declared there were no cures for his degenerating knee.

McLeod found the strength to play another 200 AFL games.

Today, he is in need of more surgery and told of how he still wakes up in the middle of the night with pain in the joint.

Tredrea damaged both his knees twice during his career with his torment starting in 1998 at Princes Park where his breakout game — with eight goals and 17 marks against Carlton — ended with his right knee cap being dislocated.

Tredrea's career seemed over in a trial game in 2006 when teammate Damon White crashed across his left knee. He battled through another 75 AFL games and today cannot run.

McLeod and Tredrea last night both took delight in entering the Hall as one-club players after each was tempted to leave the Crows and Power during their careers.

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Seagulls circle Sami for top job

Sami Hyypia (right) challenges Luton Town's Calvin Andrew in the FA Cup third round during his playing days with Liverpool in 2008. Picture: AFP Source: News Limited

FORMER Liverpool skipper Sami Hyypia has been linked to Championship side Brighton over its vacant managerial role.

The 40-year-old Finn, renowned in England for his time spent with the Reds, is out of work after being sacked by Bundesliga giants Bayer Leverkusen this year. Hyypia spent 18 months in charge of the club.

Sources claim the Seagulls have been without a boss since Spaniard Oscar Garcia resigned at the end of the season, despite leading the club into the play-offs in his first season.

Brighton has been assessing its options since Garcia left, but has now opened talks with the hope of persuading Hyypia to take on the challenge of getting it to the Premier League.

Hyypia has also been linked with the vacant Premier League roles at Southampton and West Brom.

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Agony for Kennedy, Rogic and Wilkshire

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STRIKER Josh Kennedy, who scored the goal that got Australia to Brazil, had his dreams of playing in a third consecutive World Cup dashed with a back injury forcing him out of the squad as it was trimmed to 23 on Tuesday

Meanwhile, a nagging groin injury has also ruled out Tom Rogic, who was hoping to feature in his first World Cup. Veteran Luke Wilkshire was the third big name player cut after lengthy deliberations Tuesday night.

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The Socceroos had a medical meeting after dinner on Monday night (early Tuesday EST) with Kennedy, Rogic and midfielder Mark Bresciano, who has also suffered back soreness, where the decision was made.

Young goalkeeper Mark Birighitti was also cut from the squad, leaving Borussia Dortmund's Mitch Langerak and Adelaide United's Eugene Galekovic to compete with Mat Ryan (Club Brugge).

Birighitti, the Newcastle Jets keeper, will stay until the opening game against Chile on June 14 (EST) in the event that Langerak's knee doesn't hold up.

HOW DOES THIS CHANGE YOUR FANTASY WORLD CUP PLANS? PLAY HERE

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Kennedy was on course to play in the warm-up game against local second division side Parana Clube before his back seized up at the end of training.

Newcastle Jets striker Adam Taggart took his opportunity by scoring a goal in the 2-0 win and now looms as the beneficiary of Kennedy's injury with inclusion in the 23 and a chance to feature in Brazil.

Josh Kennedy, Tim Cahill, Archie Thompson and Tomas Rogic celebrate. Only Cahill will play in Brazil. Source: News Limited

Kennedy's injury is not thought to be serious, but having missed five weeks for Japanese club Nagoya Grampus on the eve of the World Cup, his back flared up during the Socceroos' high-intensity sessions.

Assistant coach Aurelio Vidmar had claimed Kennedy would be fit.

"He aggravated his back right at the end of training yesterday and he's pulled up quite well this morning so we decided not to risk it and that's why Adam played,'' he said.

"No, we had a chat to him this morning and he's very good, we just thought it was the best thing for him not to take any chances.''

Rogic has had an injury hit season and was forced off midway through the warm-up game.

Tom Rogic was below par in the Socceroos friendly. Source: News Corp Australia

All teams were required to submit their 23-man squads by Tuesday.

AUSTRALIA WORLD CUP SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Mat Ryan (Club Brugge), Mitchell Langerak (Borussia Dortmund), Eugene Galekovic (Adelaide United).

Defenders: Ivan Franjic (Brisbane Roar), Jason Davidson (Heracles Almelo), Matthew Spiranovic (Western Sydney Wanderers), Bailey Wright (Preston North End), Alex Wilkinson (Jeonbuk Motors), Ryan McGowan (Shandong Luneng)

Midfielders: Mile Jedinak (Crystal Palace), Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory), James Holland (Austria Vienna), Massimo Luongo (Swindon Town), Oliver Bozanic (Luzern), Matt McKay (Brisbane Roar), Mark Bresciano (Al-Gharafa)

Attackers: Tim Cahill (New York Red Bulls), Dario Vidosic (Sion), Tommy Oar (FC Utrecht), James Troisi (Melbourne Victory), Ben Halloran (Fortuna Dusseldorf), Adam Taggart (Newcastle Jets), Mathew Leckie (FSV Frankfurt).

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No news not good news for Schu

It has been two months since the last update on Formula One legend Michael Schumacher. Source: Lefteris Pitarakis / Supplied

A FORMER F1 doctor says fans of Formula One star Michael Schumacher will "never have any good news" regarding his condition.

It has been two months since any updates were given on Schumacher, who suffered a head injury while skiing in France on December 29 last year.

Former F1 doctor Gary Hartstein said fans should not delude themselves of the gravity of Schumacher's condition.

"I'm quite afraid (and virtually certain) we will never have any good news about Michael. At this point, I rather dread seeing that the family has put out a press release," he told The Telegraph . "I can conceive of no possible reason that Michael's entourage, understandably extremely protective of his and their privacy, would not tell his fans if significantly good things have happened."

Michael Schumacher, looks on after a spin at the South Garda Karting track in Lonato, northern Italy, in 2009. Source: AP

Dr Hartstein's comments were echoed by respected Formula One writer, Roger Benoit, who believes the silence of the Schumacher family and Grenoble Hospital, where he is being treated, is telling.

"Slowly, everybody is really worried. Grenoble and the family have been silent for weeks. Why?"

The last update by Schumacher's manager Sabine Kehm was issued on April 4.

"Michael is making progress on his way. He shows moments of consciousness and awakening. We are on his side during his long and difficult fight, together with the team of the hospital in Grenoble, and we keep remaining confident," it read.

It has been 18 weeks since doctors started gradually waking him from a coma. The investigation into Schumacher's accident wound up in February with French authorities ruling out any criminal wrongdoing.

Schumacher's wife, Corinna, and their children Gina Marie, 16, and Mick, 14, remain by his bedside.

Mercedes F1 driver Michael Schumacher (L) speaks with Red Bull driver Mark Webber in 2010. Source: AFP

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Aussie Ange making his own mark

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ANGE Postecoglou jokes about his first appearance as Socceroos coach on the global stage at a World Cup briefing in Brazil.

"A few people came up and asked me how Holger (sacked coach Holger Osieck) was going, and wondered where he was,'' says Postecoglou. ''I think they thought I was just filling in.''

Postecoglou laughs about his anonymity on the international stage. But for some the fact Australia will be coached by Australia is an unusual source of concern.

Does Postecoglou have the wits to match it with the world's best? Will a team led by a man who has never been to a World Cup be overwhelmed and overawed?

Of course, in a game where some moan endlessly about allegedly racist stereotyping, that there was even a debate about the appointment of an Australian to coach the Socceroos at this World Cup is strange.

After the disaster of the last World Cup where Dutchman Pim Verbeek's Australians was thrashed 4-0 by Germany in the first game, the most shrill critics begged for an Australian coach. Or at least someone who would ensure the Socceroos played in some supposed ''Australian way''.

Yet, when it was determined an Australian would take the reins from German Holger Osieck, the same critics furrowed their brows and wondered if the successful candidate Postecoglou had the sophistication to compete on the global stage.

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In the coming few weeks, Postecoglou faces his first major test. Albeit one that, given the flimsy nature of his experimental squad, will not provide any conclusive evidence of his acumen.

For now, rather than fretting about any shortcomings, there is a strong case to be made the Football Federation Australia has done well to buy locally.

Socceroos striker Josh Kennedy has played at 2006 and 2010 World Cups under two Dutch coaches (Guus Hiddink and Verbeek) and, until late last year, seemed destined to compete in a third for a German (Osieck).

Asked if there was anything playing for an Australian, Kennedy cites the most obvious. ''There is probably lots of things, but I guess the first thing is that nothing gets lost in translation,'' he says. ''With Holger and Pim, they had sayings that wouldn't translate properly into English and that could be quite funny.''

If Postecoglou's message is sometimes more easily understood, Kennedy says it is not less sophisticated than that of his imported predecessors.

''He's just as professional, if not more so, than any coach I've experienced,'' says Kennedy. ''There are a lot of little things, but when it comes down to it he's just a good coach. Since day one the way he's gone about things has really impressed the players.''

Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou cracks a rare smile at training. Source: Getty Images

If Postecoglou's coaching credentials were paramount, there is no question his marketability were also a factor in his appointment. At a time when the Socceroos have not major sponsor, and disappointing performances and a lack of star power have diminished their ''brand'', the new coach's ability to engage comfortably and intelligently with a local audience appealing.

FFA chief executive David Gallop was impressed with Postecoglou performance as both coach and ambassador when he coached both the A-League All-Stars against Manchester United and Melbourne Victory against Liverpool last year.

Osieck had treated most involvement with the media and fans as a necessary evil. When the German's fate was sealed about an hour into the Socceroos' 6-0 defeat by France in October, Postecoglou's comfortable relationship with the home town fans gave him a significant advantage over the foreign coaches FFA chairman Frank Lowy is believed to have favoured.

Given Postecoglou's mandate to revamp the national team, maintaining the faith of the media and the public is particularly important. Since taking control he has had to sell the idea that a handful of Socceroos superstars – Harry Kewell, Lucas Neil, Mark Schwarzer – had reached their use-by dates. A difficult task performed with aplomb.

But perhaps the greatest advantage of an Australian coach, during a time of generational change, is Postecoglou's intimate knowledge of the local talent – or lack thereof. Those players Postecoglou had not seen in the A-League he spent several weeks scouting in Asia and the minor leagues in Europe.

''Put it this way,'' says one official close to the team. ''Holger or Pim wouldn't have anywhere near the same grasp of what and wasn't available in the A-League. They wouldn't have identified someone like Bailey Wright who's playing league two in England. They wanted the finished product which is why Holger was probably so reluctant to let go of the golden era players.

''That's the advantage of a local coach right there. Ange doesn't have the luxury of walking out on the training ground and putting them through their paces. He's had to put the squad together by hand.''

The test in the next few weeks might be whether an Australian coach has an untested Socceroos's team playing in the supposed ''Australian way''. Defeats will be tolerated, but – as Verbeek and Osieck found - abject surrender is not an option.

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Ferrer marches into quarters

Spain's David Ferrer celebrates his four-set victory against South Africa's Kevin Anderson. Picture: AFP Source: PASCAL GUYOT / AFP

SPANISH fifth seed David Ferrer reached his 10th successive grand slam quarter-final with a four-set win against South Africa's Kevin Anderson in the French Open fourth round.

Ferrer, last year's runner-up, will face defending champion Rafael Nadal or Serbia's Dusan Lajovic in the last eight after his 6-3 6-3 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 victory.

Ferrer had beaten Anderson at the same stage of the tournament last year.

Anderson had hoped to be the first South African man in the last eight since Cliff Drysdale in 1967.

Spain's David Ferrer serves to South Africa's Kevin Anderson. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

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Final World Cup 23-man squads

Steven Gerrard lead England's final 23. Source: - / AFP

DREAMS are sealed and hopes shattered as 32 World Cup coaches announce their final 23-man squads for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Here's your one-stop-shop for all your World Cup squad news - and we'll update this piece from preliminary squads to final 23-man lists when they're announced.

MORE WORLD CUP NEWS

SOCCEROOS SQUAD SELECTOR

GROUP A

BRAZIL

Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar (QPR), Jefferson (Botafogo), Victor (Atletico Mineiro)

Defenders: David Luiz (Chelsea), Dante (Bayern Munich), Thiago Silva (Paris Saint-Germain), Henrique (Napoli), Maicon (Roma), Dani Alves (Barcelona), Marcelo (Real Madrid), Maxwell (Paris Saint-Germain)

Midfielders: Luiz Gustavo (Wolfsburg), Paulinho (Tottenham), Fernandinho (Manchester City), Ramires (Chelsea), Oscar (Chelsea), Willian (Chelsea), Hernanes (Inter Milan)

Forwards: Hulk (Zenit St. Petersburg), Bernard (Shakhtar Donetsk), Neymar (Barcelona), Jo (Atletico Mineiro), Fred (Fluminense)

HEADLINE: all eyes will be on Neymar with veterans Ronaldinho, Kaka and Robino left out of Luis Felipe Scolari's squad, which also had no room for Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho.

REACTION: NO RONALDINHO, KAKA IN BRAZIL 23

Brazil's superstars Neymar, left, Daniel Alves, center, and Fred joke around at training. Source: AP

CAMEROON - PRELIMINARY

Goalkeepers: Charles Itandje (Konyaspor), Ndy Assembe (Guingamp), Sammy Ndjock (Fetihespor), Loic Feudjou (Coton Sport)

Defenders: Allan Nyom (Granada), Dany Nounkeu (Besiktas), Cedric Djeugoue (Coton Sport), Aurelien Chedjou (Galatasaray), Nicolas Nkoulou (Marseille), Armel Kana-Biyik (Rennes), Henri Bedimo (Lyon), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham), Gaetang Bong (Olympiakos)

Midfielders: Eyong Enoh (Antalyaspor), Jean II Makoun (Rennes), Joel Matip (Schalke 04), Stephane Mbia (Sevilla), Landry Nguemo (Bordeaux), Alexandre Song (Barcelona), Cedric Loe (Osasuna), Edgar Sally (Lens)

Strikers: Samuel Eto'o (Chelsea), Eric Choupo Moting (Mainz), Benjamin Moukandjo (Nancy), Vincent Aboubakar (Lorient), Achille Webo (Fenerbahce), Mohamadou Idrissou (Kaiserslautern), Fabrice Olinga (Zulte-Waregem)

HEADLINE: Chelsea veteran Samuel Eto'o and Barcelona's Alex Song headline a predominantly European based squad.

Age won't stop Cameroon forward Samuel Eto'o going to the World Cup. Source: AFP

CROATIA

Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (Rostov/RUS), Danijel Subasic (Monaco/FRA), Oliver Zelenika (Lokomotiva Zagreb)

Defenders: Darijo Srna (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR), Domagoj Vida (Dynamo Kiev/UKR), Sime Vrsaljko (Genoa/ITA), Danijel Pranjic (Panathinaikos/GRE), Vedran Corluka (Lokomotiv Moscow/RUS), Dejan Lovren (Southampton/ENG), Gordon Schindelfeld (Panathinaikos/GRE) Midfielders: Luka Modric (Real Madrid/ESP), Ivan Rakitic (Sevilla/ESP), Mateo Kovacic (Inter Milan/ITA), Marcelo Brozovic (Dinamo Zagreb), Ognjen Vukojevic (Dynamo Kiev/UKR), Ivan Mocinic (Rijeka), Sammir (Getafe/ESP)

Forwards: Mario Mandzukic (Bayern Munich/GER), Nikica Jelavic (Hull City/ENG), Ivica Olic (VfL Wolfsburg/GER), Eduardo Da Silva (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR), Ivan Perisic (VfL Wolfsburg/GER), Ante Rebic (Fiorentina/ITA)

HEADLINE: Plenty of stars for the Croats, mainly Bayern's Mario Mandzukic, Luka Modric, Nikica Jelavic and Ivan Rakitic

Real Madrid's Champions League winner Luka Modric is Croatia's go-to guy. Source: AP

MEXICO

Goalkeepers: Jesus Corona (Cruz Azul), Guillermo Ochoa (Ajaccio), Alfredo Talavera (Toluca)

Defenders: Paul Aguilar (Club America), Andres Guardado (Bayer Leverkusen), Miguel Layun (Club America), Rafael Marquez (Leon), Hector Moreno (Espanyol), Diego Reyes (Porto), Francisco Javier Rodriguez (Club America), Carlos Salcido (Tigres)

Midfielders: Isaac Brizuela (Toluca), Marco Fabian (Cruz Azul), Hector Herrera (Porto), Juan Carlos Medina (Club America), Luis Montes (Leon), Carlos Pena (Leon), Jose Juan Vazquez (Leon)

Forwards: Giovani Dos Santos (Villarreal), Javier Hernandez (Manchester United), Raul Jimenez (Club America), Oribe Peralta (Santos), Alan Pulido (Tigres)

HEADLINE: Marquee veteran Rafa Marquez leads Mexico's contingent, who needed a play-off against New Zealand to qualify. Defender Carlos Salcido is a surprise in, getting his first call-up under boss Miguel Herrera, while Giovani Dos Santos and Javier Hernandez will be the stars up front.

GROUP B

AUSTRALIA

Goalkeepers: Mat Ryan (Club Brugge), Mitchell Langerak (Borussia Dortmund), Eugene Galekovic (Adelaide United), Mark Birighitti (Newcastle Jets)

Defenders: Ivan Franjic (Brisbane Roar), Jason Davidson (Heracles Almelo), Matthew Spiranovic (Western Sydney Wanderers), Bailey Wright (Preston North End), Luke Wilkshire (Dynamo Moscow), Alex Wilkinson (Jeonbuk Motors), Ryan McGowan (Shandong Luneng)

Midfielders: Mile Jedinak (Crystal Palace), Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory), James Holland (Austria Vienna), Massimo Luongo (Swindon Town), Oliver Bozanic (Luzern), Matt McKay (Brisbane Roar), Mark Bresciano (Al-Gharafa)

Attackers: Tim Cahill (New York Red Bulls), Josh Kennedy (Nagoya Grampus), Tom Rogic (Melbourne Victory), Dario Vidosic (Sion), Tommy Oar (FC Utrecht), James Troisi (Melbourne Victory), Ben Halloran (Fortuna Dusseldorf), Adam Taggart (Newcastle Jets), Mathew Leckie (FSV Frankfurt)

HEADLINE: Josh Brilliante, Adam Sarota and Curtis Good missed the first cut, now we wait to see who Ange Postecoglou chooses in his final 23 on Wednesday.

Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou will drop one final player on Wednesday. Source: AFP

CHILE

Goalkeepers: Claudio Bravo (Real Sociedad/ESP), Johnny Herrera (Universidad de Chile), Cristopher Toselli (Universidad Catolica)

Defenders: Gary Medel (Cardiff City/ENG), Jose Rojas (Universidad de Chile), Eugenio Mena (Santos/BRA), Gonzalo Jara (Nottingham Forest/ENG)

Midfielders: Arturo Vidal (Juventus/ITA), Mauricio Isla (Juventus/ITA), Marcelo Diaz (Basel/SUI), Francisco Silva (Osasuna/ESP), Felipe Gutierrez (FC Twente/NED), Jose Pedro Fuenzalida (Colo Colo), Carlos Carmona (Atalanta/ITA), Jean Beausejour (Wigan/ENG), Charles Aranguiz (Internacional/BRA), Miiko Albornoz (Malmo/SWE).

Forwards: Alexis Sanchez (Barcelona/ESP), Eduardo Vargas (Valencia/ESP), Jorge Valdivia (Palmeiras/BRA), Mauricio Pinilla (Cagliari/ITA), Esteban Paredes (Colo Colo), Fabian Orellana (Celta Vigo/ESP)

HEADLINE: Injured Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal has made the cut for the final 23 despite injury. Midfielders David Pizarro of Italy's Fiorentina and Humberto Suazo, who plays in Monterrey, Mexico. Barcelona's Alexis Sanchez leads the line.

Chilean footballer Arturo Vidal is recovering form surgery but is in Chile's 23-man squad. Source: AFP

NETHERLANDS

Goalkeepers: Jasper Cillessen (Ajax), Tim Krul (Newcaste United), Michel Vorm (Swansea City)
Defenders: Daley Blind (Ajax), Daryl Janmaat (Feyenoord), Terence Kongolo (Feyenoord), Bruno Martins Indi (Feyenoord), Joel Veltman (Ajax), Paul Verhaegh (FC Augsburg), Ron Vlaar (Aston Villa), Stefan de Vrij (Feyenoord)

Midfielders: Jordy Clasie (Feyenoord), Leroy Fer (Norwich City), Jonathan De Guzman (Swansea City), Nigel de Jong (AC Milan), Wesley Sneijder (Galatasaray), Georginio Wijnaldum (PSV Eindhoven)

Forwards: Memphis Depay (PSV Eindhoven), Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (Schalke 04), Dirk Kuyt (Fenerbahce), Jeremain Lens (Dynamo Kiev), Robin van Persie (Manchester United, Arjen Robben (Bayern Mnich)

HEADLINE: The loss of key midfielder Kevin Strootman has forced Louis Van Gaal into a reshuffle and he is contemplating playing five defenders. The squad is a mix of Eredivse rookies and 2010 veterans.

Dutch forward Robin van Persie chats with coach Louis van Gaal. Source: AFP

SPAIN

Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Pepe Reina (Napoli), David de Gea (Manchester United)

Defenders: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich), Raul Albiol (Napoli), Juanfran Torres (Atletico Madrid).

Midfielders: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Xavi Hernandez (Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Koke Resurreccion (Atletico Madrid), David Silva (Manchester City), Juan Mata (Manchester United), Santi Cazorla (Arsenal).

Forwards: Pedro Rodriguez (Barcelona), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid), David Villa (Atletico Madrid), Fernando Torres (Chelsea).

HEADLINE: Jesus Navas and Alvaro Negredo miss out; Fernando Torres and Diego Costa are in.

Spain forward Fernando Torres was a surprise inclusion in Vicente Del Bosque's squad. Source: AFP

GROUP C

COLOMBIA (preliminary squad)

Goalkeepers: David Ospina, Faryd Mondragon, Camilo Vargas

Defenders: Eder Alvarez Balanta, Santiago Arias, Pablo Armero, Mario Yepes, Camilo Zuñiga, Cristian Zapata, Luis Amaranto Perea Carlos Valdes, Aquivaldo Mosquera.

Midfielders: James Rodriguez, Juan Fernando Quintero, Fredy Guarin, Alexander Mejia, Aldo Leão Ramirez, Carlos Sanchez, Elkin Soto, Juan Guillermo Cuadrado, Abel Aguilar, Macnelly Torres

Strikers: Radamel Falcao, Carlos Bacca, Adrian Ramos, Luis Muriel, Jackson Martinez, Teofilo Gutierrez, Victor Ibarbo

HEADLINE: Star striker Radamel Falcao could make the World Cup finals yet despite a serious injury while playing for Monaco back in January. The 28-year-old has repeatedly said he still hopes to be in Brazil and manager Jose Pekerman is confident he will be leading the line.

Colombia striker Radamel Falcao is racing the clock to be fit in time for the World Cup. Source: AFP

GREECE

Goalkeepers: Orestis Karnezis (Granada), Panagiotis Glykos (PAOK), Stefanos Kapino (Panathinaikos).

D efenders: Vassilis Torosidis (Roma), Loukas Vyntra (Levante), Sokratis Papastathopoulos (Borussia Dortmund), Costas Manolas (Olympiakos), Vangelis Moras (Hellas Verona), Jose Holebas (Olympiakos), Giorgos Tzavellas (PAOK), Yiannis Maniatis (Olympiakos).

Midfielders: Alexandros Tziolis (Kayserispor), Kostas Katsouranis (PAOK), Giorgos Karagounis (Fulham), Andreas Samaris (Olympiakos), Panagiotis Tachtsidis (Torino), Panagiotis Kone (Bologna), Yiannis Fetfatzidis (Genoa), Lazaros Christodoulopoulos (Bologna).

Forwards: Georgios Samaras (Celtic), Kostas Mitroglou (Fulham), Theofanis Gekas (Konyaspor), Dimitris Salpingidis (PAOK).

HEADLINE: 132-cap veteran Giorgos Karagounis leads the side, despite a sub-par season at Fulham, while club teammate Kostas Mitroglou will also be there.

IVORY COAST

TOURE IN SQUAD DESPITE BEING DIAGNOSED WITH MALARIA

Goalkeepers: Boubacar Barry (Lokeren), Sylvain Gbohouo (Sewe Sport), Mande Sayouba (Stabaek).

Defenders: Serge Aurier (Toulouse), Jean-Daniel Akpa-Akpro (Toulouse), Didier Zokora (Trabzonspor), Kolo Toure (Liverpool), Souleman Bamba (Trabzonspor), Arthur Boka (Stuttgart), Constant Djakpa (Eintracht Frankfurt), Ousmane Viera (Caykur Rizespor).

Midfielders: Cheick Tiote (Newcastle), Serey Die (Basel), Ismael Diomande (Saint-Etienne), Didier Ya Konan (Hannover), Yaya Toure (Manchester City), Max Gradel (Saint-Etienne).

Forwards: Didier Drogba (Galatasaray), Wilfried Bony (Swansea), Gervinho (Roma), Salomon Kalou (Lille), Giovanni Sio (Basel), Mathis Bolly (Fortuna Dusseldorf).

HEADLINE: Didier Drogba and Yaya Toure headline a squad that sees the latter's brother Kolo Toure included, despite being diagnosed with malaria.

Didier Drogba in action for Ivory Coast. Source: AFP

JAPAN

Goalkeepers: Eiji Kawashima (Standard Liege), Shusaku Nishikawa (Urawa Red Diamonds), Shuichi Gonda (FC Tokyo)

Defenders: Yuto Nagatomo (Inter Milan), Maya Yoshida (Southampton), Yasuyuki Konno (Gamba Osaka), Masahiko Inoha (Jubilo Iwata), Masato Morishige (FC Tokyo), Atsuto Uchida (Schalke 04), Hiroki Sakai (Hannover 96), Gotoku Sakai (Stuttgart)

Midfielders:

Makoto Hasebe (Nuremberg), Hotaru Yamaguchi (Cerezo Osaka), Yasuhito Endo (Gamba Osaka), Toshihiro Aoyama (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Hiroshi Kiyotake (Nuremberg), Keisuke Honda (AC Milan)

Forwards: Shinji Kagawa (Manchester United), Shinji Okazaki (Mainz 05), Yuya Osako (1860 Munich), Yoichiro Kakitani (Cerezo Osaka), Yoshito Okubo (Kawasaki Frontale), Manabu Saito (Yokohama Marinos)

HEADLINE: Australia's Asian rivals Japan boast European stars Shingi Kagawa from Manchester United, Mainz forward Shinji Okazaki and AC Milan marksman Keisuke Honda. Surprisingly, veteran striker Yoshito Okubo also got the nod.

Japan star Shinji Kagawa will look to put a poor club season behind him at the World Cup. Source: AFP

GROUP D

COSTA RICA

Goalkeepers: Keylor Navas (Levante), Patrick Pemberton (Alajuelense), Daniel Cambronero (Herediano)

Defenders: Giancarlo González (Columbus Crew), Jhonny Acosta (Alajuelense), Michael Umaña, (Saprissa), Roy Miller (New York Red Bull), Óscar Duarte (Club Brugge), Junior Díaz (Mainz 05), Cristian Gamboa (Rosenborg), Heiner Mora (Saprissa), Waylon Francis (Columbus Crew)

Midfielders: Yeltsin Tejeda (Saprissa), José Miguel Cubero (Herediano), Óscar Esteban Granados (Herediano), Celso Borges (AIK), Michael Barrantes (Aalesund), Christian Bolaños (FC Copenhague), Diego Calvo (Valerenga)

Forwards: Bryan Ruiz (PSV), Joel Campbell (Olympiacos), Randall "Chiqui" Brenes (Cartaginés), Marco Ureña (Kuban Krasnodar)

HEADLINE: Joel Campbell, on loan at Olympiakos from Arsenal, and Bryan Ruiz, at PSV Eindhoven on loan from Fulham, are the two notable inclusions for Costa Rica. Carlos Hernandez misses out.

ENGLAND

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Ben Foster (West Bromwich Albion), Fraser Forster (Celtic).

Defenders: Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Luke Shaw (Southampton), Chris Smalling (Manchester United).

Midfielders: Ross Barkley (Everton), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Lallana (Southampton), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), James Milner (Manchester City), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal).

Forwards: Rickie Lambert (Southampton), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool), Daniel Welbeck (Manchester United).

HEADLINE: Veterans Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard are in, but Ashley Cole isn't, with Everton sensation Ross Barkley headlining an England squad with a sprinkling of the EPL's brightest young talent.

Roy Hodgson's England squad is full of young talent. Source: AFP

ITALY

Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Salvatore Sirigu (Paris Saint-GermainG/FRA), Mattia Perin (Genoa)

Defenders: Ignazio Abate (AC Milan), Andrea Barzagli (Juventus), Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Matteo Darmian (Torino), Mattia De Sciglio (AC Milan), Gabriel Paletta (Parma)

Midfielders: Alberto Aquilani (Fiorentina), Antonio Candreva (Lazio), Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Claudio Marchisio (Juventus), Thiago Motta (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Marco Parolo (Parma), Andrea Pirlo (Juventus), Marco Verratti (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA)

Forwards: Mario Balotelli (AC Milan), Antonio Cassano (Parma), Alessio Cerci (Torino), Ciro Immobile (Torino), Lorenzo Insigne (Napoli)

HEADLINE: Key defender Giorgio Chiellini is in despite a Juventus club ethics ban for elbowing Roma midfielder Miralem Pjanic while striker Antonio Cassano was somewhat of a shock choice to go to Brazil.

Italy forward Mario Balotelliwill bring the fun to the World Cup. Source: AP

URUGUAY

Goalkeepers: Fernando Muslera (Galatasaray), Martin Silva (Vasco da Gama), Rodrigo Munoz (Libertad)

Defenders: Maximiliano Pereira (Benfica), Diego Lugano (West Bromwich Albion), Diego Godin, Jose Maria Gimenez (both Atletico Madrid), Sebastian Coates (Liverpool), Martin Caceres (Juventus), Jorge Fucile (Porto)

Midfielders: lvaro Gonzalez (Lazio), Alvaro Pereira (Sao Paulo), Walter Gargano (Parma), Egidio Arevalo Rios (Morelia), Diego Perez (Bologna), Cristian Rodriguez (Atletico Madrid), Gaston Ramirez (Southampton), Nicolas Lodeiro (Botafogo)

Forwards: Luis Suarez (Liverpool), Edinson Cavani (Paris St Germain), Abel Hernandez (Palermo), Diego Forlan (Cerezo Osaka), Christian Stuani (Espanyol).

HEADLINE: All eyes will be on Uruguay's strikeforce, boasting Liverpool's Luis Suarez and Paris Saint-Germain's Edinson Cavani.

Uruguay striker player Edinson Cavani is expected to lead the line with Luis Suarez. Source: AP

GROUP E

ECUADOR (provisional squad)

Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera, Adrian Bone, Alexander Dominguez

D efenders: Gabriel Achilier, Walter Ayovi, Oscar Bagui, Frickson Erazo, Jorge Guagua, John Narvaez, Juan Carlos Paredes, Cristian Ramirez

Midfielders: Michael Arroyo, Segundo Castillo, Carlos Gruezo, Renato Ibarra, Fidel Martinez, Edison Mendez, Oswaldo Minda, Christian Noboa, Pedro Quinonez, Luis Saritama, Antonio Valencia.

Forwards: Jaime Ayovi, Felipe Caicedo, Angel Mena, Jefferson Montero, Cristian Penilla, Joao Rojas, Enner Valencia, Armando Wila.

HEADLINE: It's all about the Valencia boys- Enner and Manchester United winger Antonio.

FRANCE

Goalkeepers: Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Steve Mandanda (Marseille), Mickael Landreau (Bastia)

Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (Newcastle), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid), Eliaquim Mangala (Porto), Patrice Evra (Manchester United), Lucas Digne (PSG)

Midfielders: Yohan Cabaye (PSG), Clement Grenier (Lyon), Blaise Matuidi (PSG), Rio Mavuba (Lille), Paul Pogba (Juventus), Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle), Mathieu Valbuena (Marseille)

Forwards: Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Olivier Giroud (Arsenal), Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich), Loic Remy (QPR)

HEADLINE: Mancehster City star Samir Nasri was left out of the France squad, but they still have plenty of attacking firepower through the likes of Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery and Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.

Packed full of talent, France will be dangerous in Brazil. Source: AFP

HONDURAS

Goalkeepers: Noel Valladares, Donis Escober (both Olimpia), Luis Lopez (Real Espana).

Defenders: Brayan Beckeles (Olimpia), Emilio Izaguirre (Celtic), Juan Carlos Garcia (Wigan), Maynor Figueroa (Hull), Victor Bernardez (San Jose Earthquakes), Osman Chavez (Qingdao Janoon), Juan Pablo Montes (Motagua).

Midfielders: Arnold Peralta (Rangers), Luis Garrido (Olimpia), Roger Espinoza (Wigan), Jorge Claros (Motagua), Wilson Palacios (Stoke), Oscar Garcia (Houston Dynamo), Andy Najar (Anderlecht), Mario Martinez (Real Espana), Marvin Chavez (Colorado Rapids).

Forwards: Jerry Bengtson (New England Revolution), Jerry Palacios (Alajuelense), Carlo Costly (Real Espana), Rony Martinez (Real Sociedad).

HEADLINE: There are six British based players in the squad, headlined by Hull defender Maynor Figueroa and Stoke midfielder Wilson Palacios.

SWITZERLAND

Goalkeepers: Diego Benaglio (Wolfsburg), Roman Buerki (Grasshopper), Yann Sommer (Basel)

Defenders: Johan Djourou (Hamburg), Michael Lang (Grasshopper), Stephan Lichtsteiner (Juventus), Ricardo Rodriguez (Wolfsburg), Fabian Schaer (Basel), Philippe Senderos (Valencia), Steve von Bergen (Young Boys), Reto Ziegler (Sassuolo)

Midfielders: Tranquillo Barnetta (Eintracht Frankfurt), Valon Behrami (Napoli), Blerim Dzemaili (Napoli), Gelson Fernandes (Freiburg), Goekhan Inler (Napoli), Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich), Valentin Stocker (Basel)

Forwards: Josip Drmic (Nurnberg), Mario Gavranovic (Zurich), Admir Mehmedi (Freiburg), Haris Seferovic (Real Sociedad), Granit Xhaka (Borussia Moenchengladbach)

HEADLINE: Xherdan Shaqiri and Goekhan Inler headline a very strong midfield named in Ottmar Hitzfeld's Swiss squad, while there was also a place for veteran defender Philippe Senderos.

A good World Cup could see Switzerland's Xherdan Shaqiri make a big club transfer. Source: AP

GROUP F

ARGENTINA (preliminary squad)

Goalkeepers: Mariano Andujar (Catania/ITA), Sergio Romero (Monaco/FRA), Agustin Orion (Boca Juniors)

Defenders: Hugo Campagnaro (Inter Milan/ITA), Federico Fernandez (Napoli/ITA), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City/ENG), Ezequiel Garay (Benfica/POR), Marcos Rojo (Sporting Lisbon/POR), Jose Basanta (Monterrey/MEX), Nicolas Otamendi (Atletico Mineiro/BRA), Martin Demichelis (Manchester City/ENG)

Midfielders: Javier Mascherano (FC Barcelona/ESP), Jose Sosa (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Augusto Fernandez (Celta Vigo/ESP), Ricky Alvarez (Inter Milan/ITA), Lucas Biglia (Lazio/ITA), Ever Banega (Newell's Old Boys), Fernando Gago (Boca Juniors), Maxi Rodriguez (Newell's Old Boys), Enzo Perez (Benfica/POR)

Forward: Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona/ESP), Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid/ESP), Rodrigo Palacio (Inter Milan/ITA), Gonzalo Higuaín (Napoli/ITA), Sergio Agüero (Manchester City/ENG), Ezequiel Lavezzi (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA)

HEADLINE: Juventus superstar Carlos Tevez didn't make the cut, while winger Erik Lamela's recent injuries counted against him. However, with Lionel Messi weaving his magic and Sergio Aguero firing, Argentina isn't exactly short of attacking options.

Sergio Aguero and Lionel Messi make up Argentina's deadly strikforce. Source: AFP

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Goalkeepers: Asmir Begovic (Stoke City), Asmir Avdukic (Borac Banja Luka), Jasmin Fejzic (VFR Aalen).

Defenders: Emir Spahic (Bayer Leverkusen), Toni Sunjic (Zorya Lugansk), Sead Kolasinac (Schalke), Ognjen Vranjes (Elazigspor), Ervin Zukanovic (Gent), Ermin Bicakcic (Eintracht Braunschweig), Muhamed Besic (Ferencvaros).

Midfielders: Miralem Pjanic (Roma), Izet Hajrovic (Galatasaray), Mensur Mujdza (Freiburg), Haris Medunjanin (Gaziantepspor), Senad Lulic (Lazio), Anel Hadzic (Sturm), Tino Susic (Hajduk), Sejad Salihovic (Hoffenheim), Zvjezdan Misimovic (Guizhour Renhe), Senijad Ibricic (Erciyesspor), Avdija Vrsaljevic (Hajduk).

Forwards: Vedad Ibisevic (VfB Stuttgart), Edin Dzeko (Manchester City), Edin Visca (Istanbul BB).

HEADLINE: an underrated line-up with two of the EPL's best - Asmir Begovic and Edin Dzeko - bookending the line-up at either end.

Edin Dzeko is Bosnia's big-name player. Source: AFP

IRAN

Goalkeepers: Daniel Davari, Alireza Haghighi, Rahman Ahmadi

Defenders: Hossein Mahini, Steven Beitashour, Pejman Montazeri, Jalal Hosseini, Amir-Hossein Sadeghi, Ahmad Alenemeh, Hashem Beikzadeh, Mehrdad Pouladi

Midfielders: Javad Nekounam, Andranik Teymourian, Reza Haghighi, Ghasem Hadadifar, Bakhtiar Rahmani, Ehsan Hajsafi

Forwards: Ashkan Dejagah, Masoud Shojaei, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Reza Ghoochannejhad, Karim Ansarifard, Khosro Heydari.

HEADLINE: former Manchester United assistant Carlos Queiroz helms the Middle East outfit, which includes Fulham midfielder Ashkan Dejagah.

NIGERIA (preliminary squad)

Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Lille FC, France); Austin Ejide (Hapoel Be'er Sheva, Israel), Daniel Akpeyi (Warri Wolves), Chigozie Agbim (Gombe United)

Defenders: Elderson Echiejile (AS Monaco, France); Efe Ambrose (Celtic, Scotland); Godfrey Oboabona (Rizespor, Turkey); Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves); Kenneth Omeruo (Middlesbrough, England); Juwon Oshaniwa (Ashdod FC, Israel); Joseph Yobo (Norwich City, England); Kunle Odunlami (Sunshine Stars).

Midfielders: John Mikel Obi (Chelsea, England); Ramon Azeez (Almeria FC, Spain); Ogenyi Onazi (SS Lazio, Italy); Joel Obi (Parma, Italy); Nnamdi Oduamadi (Varese, Italy); Ejike Uzoenyi (Enugu Rangers), Nosa Igiebor (Real Betis, Spain), Sunday Mba (CA Bastia, France), Reuben Gabriel (Waasland-Beveren, Belgium), Michael Babatunde (Volyn Lutsk, Ukraine).

Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Shola Ameobi (Newcastle United, England); Emmanuel Emenike (Fenerbahce, Turkey); Obinna Nsofor (Chievo Verona, Italy); Peter Odemwingie (Stoke City, England), Michael Uchebo (Cercle Brugge, Belgium); Victor Moses (Liverpool, England), Uche Nwofor (Heerenveen, Holland).

HEADLINE: EPL strikers Peter Odemwingie, Victor Moses and Shola Ameobi have got the nod for Stephen Keshi's squad but Ikechukwu Uche, who scored 12 La Liga goals for Villareal this term, has not.

Nigeria striker Peter Odemwingie will lead the line for his country. Source: AFP

GROUP G

GERMANY

Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Roman Weidenfeller (Borussia Dortmund), Ron-Robert Zieler (Hannover)

Defenders: Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich), Erik Durm (Borussia Dortmund), Kevin Grosskreutz (Borussia Dortmund), Benedikt Hoewedes (Schalke), Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund), Marcell Jansen (Hamburg), Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich), Per Mertesacker (Arsenal, England).

Midfielders:Julian Draxler (Schalke), Matthias Ginter (Freiburg), Mario Goetze (Bayern Munich), Sami Khedira (Real Madrid, Spain), Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal), Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund), Andre Schuerrle (Chelsea, England), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich).

Forwards: MMiroslav Klose (Lazio, Italy), Lukas Podolski (Arsenal, England), Thomas Mueller (Bayern Munich).

HEADLINE: Joachim Loew has included all of his injured contingent - Manuel Neuer, Philipp Lahm and Bastian Schweinsteiger - in his final 23-man squad, which is packed full of European-based stars.

REACTION: VETERAN GOMEZ LEFT OUT OF GERMANY SQUAD

Germany coach Joachim Loew has plenty of talent at his disposal. Source: AFP

GHANA

Goalkeepers: Fatau Dauda (Orlando Pirates), Adam Kwarasey (Stromsgodset), Stephen Adams (Aduana Stars)

Defenders: Samuel Inkoom (Platanias), Daniel Opare (Standard Liege), Harrison Afful (Esperance), John Boye (Rennes), Jonathan Mensah (Evian), Rashid Sumalia (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Midfielders: Michael Essien (AC Milan), Sulley Muntari (AC Milan), Mohammed Rabiu (Kuban Krasnodar), Kwadwo Asamoah (Juventus), Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu (Udinese), Afriyie Acquah (Parma), Christian Atsu (Vitesse Arnhem), Albert Adomah (Middlesbrough), Andre Ayew (Marseille), Mubarak Wakaso (Rubin Kazan)

Forwards: Asamoah Gyan (Al Ain), Kevin-Prince Boateng (Schalke), Abdul Majeed Waris (Valenciennes), Jordan Ayew (Sochaux).

HEADLINE: Veterans Michael Essien - who missed 2010 with injury, Asamoah Gyan and Sulley Muntari all get another World Cup finals, but big names John Mensah and Isaac Vorsah have been left out.

PORTUGAL

Goalkeepers: Rui Patricio (Sporting), Beto (Sevilla/ESP), Eduardo (Braga)

Defenders: Andre Almeida (Benfica), Bruno Alves (Fenerbahce/TUR), Fabio Coentrao (Real Madrid/ESP), Joao Pereira (Valencia/ESP), Neto (Zenith St-Petersburg/RUS), Pepe (Real Madrid/ESP), Ricardo Costa (Valencia/ESP)

Midfielders: Joao Moutinho (Monaco/FRA), Miguel Veloso (Dynamo Kiev/UKR), Raul Meireles (Fenerbahce/TUR), Ruben Amorim (Benfica), William Carvalho (Sporting)

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid/ESP), Eder (Braga), Helder Postiga (Lazio/ITA), Hugo Almeida (Besiktas/TUR), Nani (Manchester United/ENG), Rafa (Braga), Varela (FC Porto), Vieirinha (Wolfsburg/GER)

HEADLINE: Portugal will rely heavily on Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo, although he'll be supported by the likes of Joao Moutinho and William Cravalho. Ricardo Quaresma was overlooked.

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo is Portugal's great hope at the World Cup. Source: AP

USA

Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)

Defenders: DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), John Brooks (Hertha Berlin), Geoff Cameron (Stoke City), Timmy Chandler (Nürnberg), Omar Gonzalez (LA Galaxy), Fabian Johnson (Borussia Mönchengladbach), DeAndre Yedlin (Seattle Sounders FC)

Midfielders: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Nantes), Michael Bradley (Toronto FC), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Mix Diskerud (Rosenborg), Julian Green (Bayern Munich), Jermaine Jones (Besiktas), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City)

Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Sunderland), Clint Dempsey (Seattle Sounders FC), Aron Johannsson (AZ Alkmaar), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes)

HEADLINE: Record goalscorer Landon Donovan is axed, but Everton No.1 Tim Howard, Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan, Sunderland striker Jozy Alitdore and Stoke defender Geoff Cameron headline USA's EPL contingent, while Jurgen Klinsmann will rely heavily on MLS-based legends Clint Dempsey.

Clint Dempseyof the United States is congratulated by teammate Timmy Chandler. Source: AFP

GROUP H

ALGERIA -

Goalkeepers: Rais Mbolhi (CSKA Sofia), Cedric Si Mohamed (CS Constantine), Mohamed Lamine Zemmamouche (USM Alger)

Defenders: Essaid Belkalem (Watford), Madjid Bougherra (Al Lekhwiya), Liassine Cadamuro (Mallorca), Faouzi Ghoulam (Naples), Rafik Halliche (Academica Coimbra), Aissa Mandi (Stade Reims), Carl Medjani (Valenciennes), Djamel Mesbah (Livorno), Mehdi Mostefa (Ajaccio)

Midfielders: Nabil Bentaleb (Tottenham Hotspur), Yacine Brahimi (Granada), Abdelmoumene Djabou (Club Africain), Sofiane Feghouli (Valencia), Mehdi Lacen (Getafe), Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City), Saphir Taider (Inter Milan), Hassan Yebda (Udinese)

Forwards: Nabil Ghilas (Porto), Islam Slimani (Sporting), El Arabi Soudani (Dinamo Zagreb).

HEADLINE: Tottenham's Nabil Bentaleb is included in a squad that boasts just three locally based players, amongst midfielders and strikers coming from the EPL, La Liga, Serie A, Ligue 1 and Russia.

BELGIUM

Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois (Atletico Madrid, on loan from Chelsea), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool), Koen Casteels (Hoffenheim), Silvio Proto (Anderlecht).

Defenders: Toby Alderweireld (Atletico Madrid), Laurent Ciman (Standard Liege), Nicolas Lombaerts (Zenit St Petersburg), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City), Daniel Van Buyten (Bayern Munich), Anthony Vanden Borre (Anderlecht), Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal), Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham).

Midfielders: Nacer Chadli, Mousa Dembele (both Tottenham), Steven Defour (Porto), Kevin De Bruyne (Wolfsburg), Marouane Fellaini, Adnan Januzaj (both Manchester United), Eden Hazard (Chelsea), Kevin Mirallas (Everton), Divock Origi (Lille), Axel Witsel (Zenit St Petersburg)

Attackers: Romelu Lukaku (Everton, on loan from Chelsea), Dries Mertens (Napoli)

Belgium rookie Adnan Januzaj training with his new teammates. Source: AP

HEADLINE: Manchester United prodigy Adnan Januzaj is IN, as is maligned club teammate Marouane Fellaini. Plenty of firepower for the Red Devils, with Eden Hazard, Kevin Mirallas and Romelu Lukaku also named.

RUSSIA

Goalkeepers: Igor Akinfeev (CSKA Moscow), Yuri Lodygin (Zenit St. Petersburg), Sergei Ryzhikov (Rubin Kazan).

Defenders: Vasily Berezutsky (CSKA Moscow), Sergei Ignashevich (CSKA Moscow), Georgy Shchennikov (CSKA Moscow), Vladimir Granat (Dynamo Moscow), Alexei Kozlov (Dynamo Moscow), Andrei Yeshchenko (Anzhi Makhachkala), Dmitry Kombarov (Spartak Moscow), Andrei Semyonov (Terek Grozny).

Midfielders: Igor Denisov (Dynamo Moscow), Alan Dzagoev (CSKA Moscow), Roman Shirokov (Zenit St. Petersburg), Denis Glushakov (Spartak Moscow), Viktor Faizulin (Zenit St. Petersburg), Oleg Shatov (Zenit St. Petersburg), Yuri Zhirkov (Dynamo Moscow), Alexander Samedov (Lokomotiv Moscow)

Forwards: Alexei Ionov (Dynamo Moscow), Alexander Kokorin (Dynamo Moscow), Maxim Kanunnikov (Amkar Perm), Alexander Kerzhakov (Zenit St. Petersburg).

HEADLINE: Fabio Capello has chosen only domestic-based players in his 23-man squad, so there's no room for Pavel Pogrebnyak,Andrey Arshavin, Roman Pavlyuchenko or Dinyar Bilyaletdinov.

SOUTH KOREA

Goalkeepers: Jung Sung-ryong (Suwon Bluewings), Kim Seung-gyu (Ulsan Hyundai), Lee Bum-young (Busan I'Park)

Defenders: Hong Jeong-ho (Augsburg), Hwang Seo-ho (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Kim Chang-soo (Kashiwa Reysol), Kim Young-gwon (Guangzhou Evergrande), Kwak Tae-hwi (Al Hilal), Lee Yong (Ulsan Hyundai), Yun Suk-young (QPR), Park Joo-ho (Mainz).

Midfielders: Ha Dae-sung (Beijing Guoan), Han Kook-young (Kashiwa Reysol), Ji Dong-won (Augsburg), Ki Sung-yueng (Swansea), Kim Bo-kyung (Cardiff City), Lee Chung-yong (Bolton), Park Jong-woo (Guangzhou R&F), Son Heung-min (Bayer Leverkusen)

Forwards: Kim Shin-wook (Ulsan Hyundai), Koo Ja-cheol (Mainz), Lee Keun-ho (Sangju Sangmu), Park Chu-young (Arsenal)

HEADLINE: Hong Myung-bo has selected a mix of European and Asian based players, with Bayer Leverkusen star Son Heung-min headlining the group. Five players, including Sunderland's Ki Sung-yueng, are from England's top two tiers.

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