World Cup Gossip - English fans back Argentina

08 June 2010 14:35

Today - England back Messi and co, Rooney sees red and more...

- World Cup mini-site

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With millions of pounds waged by football fanatics worldwide, the World Cup is arguably as important to the bookmakers as it is to the players and fans.

And while most English fans have been backing Wayne Rooney to be named player of the tournament, it appears they have less confidence in the rest of the team.

Paddy Power have revealed that punters are backing Argentina to go all the way in South Africa, even more so than the patriotic punt of England.

Darren Haines, spokesman for Paddy Power, said: "Although we still expect the patriotic punt on England to be the number one World Cup bet by the time the tournament kicks off on Friday, punters have been going barmy for the Argies over the last week. Their historic rivalry with England and near disastrous qualifying campaign under Maradona's mad management makes it very surprising to see."

- World Cup fixtures

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Back to England, and referee Jeff Selogilwe has warned Wayne Rooney that he could be in for a repeat of his World Cup red card misery.

Selogilwe refereed England's 3-0 win over local side Platinum Stars yesterday afternoon and showed the Manchester United striker a yellow card for dissent.

Selogilwe said: "To me it looks like Rooney insults people and fouls other players. If he insults a referee like me then he will use that vulgar language to other referees as well.

"He must learn to control his temper. He could get sent off in the World Cup, especially if he uses this kind of language."

- Rooney warned over temperament

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Finally, moody Frenchman William Gallas looks set to snub the media in South Africa.

The central defender, who has fallen out with a number of Arsenal team-mates over the past two seasons, is reportedly unhappy at manager Raymond Domenech's decision to make Patrice Evra captain in place of Thierry Henry.

 

Source: DSG