The only reason for my interest that I can put my finger on is the atmosphere. The weather on our usually rainy little island has been gloriously sunny over the last few days. Every where I drive, on my route to work, or to the shops for groceries, I see England flags. They're attached to cars, drapped over back seats, hanging from the windows of houses, and even flying from flag poles in front gardens. Every time I turn on the radio, switch on the television, or load the BBC news page, I confronted with more stories about Rooney's broken (or hopefully, not so broken) foot, Sven's plans for victory, and our national hero's (again, hopefully) activities in Baden-Baden.
Radio One DJ Chris Moyles and team have been dispatched to Germany; for the next few weeks, my daily commute to work will be heavily tinged with eau-de-football. Television programs will be rescheduled to make room for matches. The office canteen have produced a television from somewhere so employees can catch the England matches. It's everywhere.
And I don't mind. I should. Usually I'd be heartily sick of all this by now, and the tournament hasn't even begun. And yet there's something about the World Cup that just hooks me in. I'm powerless to resist.
And so I'll watch the matches. I'll moan about being in work for the first one. I'll cheer our lads on and hope we achieve the ultimate victory. And if the time comes to return home empty handed, I'll be disappointed. Again.
But life goes on. It just pleases me to see a nation united in hope and pride, and who aren't afraid to display their national colours — a statement which sounds impossibly cheesy but is true. So come on England: Let's see what you can do.
And good luck to the rest of you.
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Article comments
1 - Steve
I found your article bemusing, if only because I ONLY watch football (soccer) during the World Cup every four years (though I did watch Euro 2004, but I doubt I'll do that again). It's fine in small doses but I couldn't imagine watching it on a regular basis throughout the year. As you say, there are plenty other things one can be getting on with!!
2 - Christopher Rose
You must have really mixed feelings going in to tomorrow's England-Portugal game!
3 - Daniel Woolstencroft
Of course, I'd like England to win! But there's always the consolation that, if England do go out, I've got a chance of winning some cash!
That said: COME ON ENGLAND!
4 - Christopher Rose
England! EngLAND!! ENGland!!! ENGLAND!!!!