England playing the best team ever?

New Delhi: Supporters in England are gunning for the World Cup to begin in Germany because they feel, and so do even the pundits that this England team has what it takes to go the distance.

400 million TV viewers and a 93,000-strong audience at the Wembley watched with bated breath as Alan Ball crossed a ball to Geoff Hurst who shot in from close range.

Keeper Tilkowski watched helplessly as the ball hit the underside of the crossbar, apparently on or just over the line - and was cleared. The goal was awarded; England won their 1st World Cup, and thus started a controversy that has continued ever since. Four decades on, the English want to do an encore on their 40th anniversary, this time in Berlin.

Steven Gerrard says, "Yeah of course. I'd love to play. I'd love to play against Germany in the final of the World Cup. As long as we win."

Does sound like History repeating itself. Alf Ramsey had put together a very ambitious side in '66, and Sven-Goran Eriksson seems to be walking down the same path.

Like his predecessor Bobby Moore who had the inspirational Alan Ball and Bobby Charlton to rely on, current English skipper David Beckham has at his service such high profile stars like Lampard and Terry.

The England captain adds, "Potentially we've got some of the best players in the world. Young players, experienced players and, you know, that's a good mixture.

"We've got a good mix in there, we've got a good manager, good coaching staff and amazing fans. The fans that you'll see in Germany will be incredible. It'll be an experience for every one of us.

"But you know, we're ready for it. We have to work hard and get a little bit of luck along the way, which we need and who knows.

However, standing between England and the beautiful FIFA trophy will be more than what the Team of '66 had to overcome. An injured Wayne Rooney, a doubtful Michael Owen, and an untested Theo Walcott.

Add to it a certain gentleman called Henrik Larsson who will lead the Swedish charge in the Group stage. Will Eriksson's men be able to give their boss the Golden Farewell?

It sure looks tough this time round.