Pride Of The Hammers

Joe Cole and Michael Carrick made their long-awaited England debuts in the 4-0 victory over Mexico at Derby County's Pride Park on Friday night.
Joe came on at half-time for the man who pipped him to the young player of the year award, Steven Gerrard, while Michael came on for Paul Scholes at the same time. They were among eight subs made at the break.

Incidentally, recent comments attributed to Michael were pinched from an article in Hammers News Magazine, written before Harry resigned, and he has not commented since then.

The indication, however, is firmly that the managerial situation has not affected Michael's thinking. The question now is whether both have done enough to force their way into contention for the World Cup qualifier in Greece on June 6.

While Michael settled into his usual holding role in midfield, Joe began playing in an advanced position on the right hand side, and came close to scoring within minutes of taking to the field when Robbie Fowler's low cross fell to him just eight yards out, but the Mexican keeper blocked his left-foot effort.

The miss failed to affect his confidence though and despite later being moved over to the opposite flank, he was involved in many of England's brightest moves throughout the second half, winning the free-kick that led to Teddy Sheringham's goal and almost setting up another for fellow debutant Alan Smith with an exciting run.

Michael was also impressive in the centre of the field, setting up many attacks with his inventive range of passing and, on the whole, both youngsters can be highly satisfied with their first tastes of senior international football.

Joe said it would be " a dream come true" to play for England, and, while Michael has always been more circumspect about the situation, can feel rightly proud that he has kept pace with his friend and moved onto the international stage.

Glenn Roeder said this week that the time was right to introduce them to the full team, and hinted that within three years the players will be even better.

An awesome thought!