Owen Hargreaves

Owen Hargreaves - Midfielder - England's World Cup Squad 2006
squad no. 16

club: Bayern Munich
position: If we can work it out we'll let you know
age: 25
caps: 30
goals:

Sven's favourite gets another inexplicable inclusion in the squad.

Offers the squad absolutely nothing that isn't there already and has no redeeming features as a constructive player whatsoever. A waste of a pick.

Football England Verdict
Rating: 5.75

Despite the low mark this tournament represented a personal triumph for Hargreaves after a couple of decent displays and his tour de force against Portugal.
To be honest he did little other than run around a lot and look interested when we went down to ten men but these were qualities that were in short supply during the tournament.
His activity was a welcome relief as Eriksson's reign became ever more timid and bland.
I still have big reservations about this guy especially as he is now looked upon as an ideal holding player. When he was in that position, however, his energy was restrained and his main input was to continually pass back to the defenders.

Portugal 0-0.
Football England rating: 8
Hargreaves emerged as an unlikely hero after Rooney's sending off. His energy and pace were important in keeping England's heads' above water when down to ten and he almost created a last minute winner after a thrilling burst into the box.

Ecuador 1-0.
Football England rating: 6
Did okay at right back but hardly looks a natural and would be a worry in that position against Portugal.
Could be fighting Carrick for a midfield role from here on in if Gary Neville gets fit.

Sweden 2-2.
Football England rating: 6
Did okay, especially in the first half but was hardly an impenetrable barrier when Sweden got on top after half time. No doubt we'll be seeing more of Sven's favourite before our tournament is over.

Trinidad 2-0.
Thankfully we were spared Hargreaves in this one.

Paraguay 1-0.
Football England rating 3
This might seem harsh as he was only on for ten minutes and we were already playing like morons at that stage but this seems to be his role in the squad and he only ever makes things worse.
There is a desperation in his play that does not disturb the opposition it just increases the sense of panic in our ranks.
Completely missed the ball with one wild attempted clearance on the edge of our box when under no obvious pressure.
Another inexplicable cap for an inexplicable player from an inexplicable manager.

Check back here for Football England's Assessment of Hargreaves's Performances and News.