England start WC countdown in Holland

AMSTERDAM: Fabio Capello expects England to start their countdown to the World Cup by vindicating his decision to leave Michael Owen out of the squad for Wednesday's (Beijing time Thursday) friendly against Holland.

With the start of the Premier League campaign coming just three days after England's trip to Amsterdam, it would be understandable if Capello's players weren't fully focused on their international commitments.

But the England coach has just 10 months to prepare for next year's World Cup in South Africa and every minute with his squad is vital.