World Cup 2010 news: Martin O'Neill backs Downing and Warnock for England

18/02/2010

Stephen Warnock and Stewart Downing still have the opportunity to force their way into Fabio Capello's plans for World Cup 2010.

According to their club boss Martin O'Neill, the two Aston Villa players should be regarded as regular contenders - with Warnock's chances likely to have been buoyed by Ashley Cole's broken ankle in Chelsea's 2-1 defeat to Everton.

And with Wayne Bridge currently embroiled in the ongoing saga surrounding John Terry's alleged affair, Warnock may be the next in line to wear the number three shirt at World Cup 2010.

Meanwhile, England boss Capello is thought to have been a long-term admirer of Downing's and is likely to have been pleased with the left winger's display against Crystal Palace, when he claimed assists for both Villa goals.

O'Neill expressed confidence that the two can impress Capello sufficiently to warrant a trip to South Africa, adding that the England squad is unlikely to have been decided yet.

"While there's always a bit of doubt in someone's mind or not complete clarity, then absolutely," he told the Birmingham Mail.

Posted by Oliver Jakes