THE waiting will be over for the country's top footballers today when Sven Goran Eriksson chooses his England squad of 23 to take to the World Cup.

Most of the names will be taken as read. Goalkeepers David Seaman, Nigel Martyn and David James have always featured when fit.

In defence, Rio Ferdinand and Sol Campbell are the Swede's first choice, with experienced Gareth Southgate an able deputy. The left of defence no longer seems a problem, as Ashley Cole and Southampton's Wayne Bridge have impressed during their limited international careers.

The midfield of David Beckham, Kieron Dyer, Paul Scholes and Steven Gerrard picks itself, with Nicky Butt assured after an excellent season at Manchester United.

Eriksson's favourite two strikers are Michael Owen and Emile Heskey. They will be joined by poacher Robbie Fowler and the more subtle option of 36-year-old Teddy Sheringham. That leaves six places up for grabs. Darius Vassell of Aston Villa should clinch the fifth forward berth, in front of Matt Jansen, after scoring two goals in three England appearances. Youngsters Joe Cole and Owen Hargreaves can both play in any midfield position, and I believe they will get the nod ahead of Steve McManaman, Danny Murphy, Trevor Sinclair and Ray Parlour. Hargreaves can also play right-back, now England's problem position because of Gary Neville's injury. A more natural replacement would be brother Phil or Danny Mills of Leeds, who both offer versatility across the back four. Manchester United's centre-half Wes Brown should also be taken to gain international experience.