England squad members took time out from training yesterday to speak with FA President, Prince William, via video link.  Prince William told Steven Gerrard that his appointment as captain, in the absence of injured Rio Ferdinand, was "awesome" for him.

Gerrard said that he was very disappointed for Rio but was sure that the team would be ready to win by the time of the first match.  There was a feeling of mixed emotions at the moment.

Ferdinand's is not the only high profile injury to hit the world cup teams this week. Didier Drogba is a major doubt for Ivory Coast having fractured his arm during a warm-up game, Mikel, of Chelsea and Nigeria, is out with a knee injury and the latest casualty is Dutch winger, Arjen Robben, who pulled up with a hamstring injury during a friendly match on Saturday.

There are now FIVE DAYS remaining until the start of the world cup!

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