The World Cup approaches.

Well, I bowed to a strong sense of pride in the national team and did a little something to show my devotion. I bought the official World Cup anthem. Now, I am aware that in terms of losing credibility admitting to liking Embrace is akin to professing an admiration for Kappa tracksuits and the Crazy Frog. But still, let us not deny that 'World at Your Feet' is catchy and rousing. It may have been written after the songwriter read 'The Bumper Book of how to rip off U2 and make lots of money' (maybe he borrowed it off Coldplay?), but I really don't care because I like it. However, I can't listen to it without wishing that there weren't so much singing. I don't think Danny McNamara is that well-informed that it is merely myth that every note needs to be covered by a lyric. Let the guitar breathe. Allow the Bass line to take the limelight. And really, is it necessary to have both choir and orchestration?

Yet I would certainly deem it good if the grand multitude embraced (sorry) this exceptional anthem and listened to it with the sense that England have indeed much better than average chances to actually win. Go on Ashley Cole! Clear the ball like a pro. Same to you Rio Ferdinand. Play as if you don't take your place in the squad for granted. Last of all, Go on Ronaldinho. Please break your legs in a manner that is unpainful just before you play England. So I don't feel quite so guilty about wishing such a thing but that England profit from your misfortune. in short, come on England! and Come on you other rivals and scupper your own chances!