Gareth Barry will return to the England starting line-up for the crunch Group C match against Algeria on Friday. The Manchester City midfielder has not played for almost two months after sustaining an ankle injury. His return is good news in more than one way as his presence should release captain Steve Gerrard to push forward in a game the England must win.

 

Gerrard himself said “It is great to have Gareth back. He is a terrific passer of the ball, he is so calm in possession.” The ability to release Gerrard forward will give support to Wayne Rooney who was kept relatively quiet against the USA. The Liverpool skipper added “During the past season, he (Rooney) has been one of the best players in the world – and it is only a matter of time before he is back to that.”

Head coach Fabio Capello will once again wait until the last possible moment before revealing his team to face Algeria in the 2010 World Cup. He kept everyone guessing prior to the USA match but following the uncertainty surrounding the goalkeeping position, some felt that he may at least confirm whether or not Robert Green has retained his place. However, the Italian said “Always the day of the game, not the day before.”