Cole backs Capello's air of mystery

Joe Cole believes Fabio Capello has got it exactly right by leaving his England players in the dark about his World Cup team selection.

Two days before the Three Lions open their Group C campaign against the United States in Rustenburg, Capello has still to announce who his goalkeeper will be. Other places are also open to debate, even though a general consensus about England's likely line-up is starting to emerge.

But Cole, who is expected to start on the left as Steven Gerrard moves back to partner Frank Lampard in central midfield, said: "It keeps everyone on their toes. The great thing about the squad now, which is different to when I have been in England squads before, is that you don't know who the manager is going to pick in any position."

The midfielder continued: "When players are not being picked on reputations and the manager is choosing his team solely on form, fitness and temperament, that is when you get the better team ethic and things gel together.

"There is a lot of competition in this squad. There aren't 10 lads thinking they are going to be sitting on the bench in this tournament.

"Everyone thinks they have got a chance at this World Cup and that has to help overall."

Cole is confident that England can reach the final in South Africa, which Capello has stated is his aim over the next four weeks.

"This squad has got the experience of being in tournaments before, everyone is coming to the right age and both (Wayne) Rooney and Gerrard are fit," he added.

"If we have that bit of luck, we can go all the way. I believe we can. I am convinced we can.

"I have got faith in these boys."