Talking 'Bout My Generation

England's convinving despatch of Bulgaria on Friday night should be a watershed for the national team.

Fabio Capello's promises of change and revolution have been met with cynicism in some quarters not least in the eyes of this keen observer. England have for too long relied on the talents of the 'golden generation' of Terry, Beckham, Lampard, Gerrard and co. The time has come for a new order of youth and attacking flair.

Joe Hart has shown domestically and at international level that he has what it takes to hold onto the England number one jersey for years to come. A commanding presence and calm, assured shot-stopping skills provide sturdy foundations on which Capello and future England managers can build a formidable defence.

In front of him, the partnership of King and Dawson at Tottenham Hotspur has long been overlooked partly down to the 'untouchable' status of Terry and Ferdinand. Players like Phil Jagielka and Garry Cahill put in weekly shifts for their respective clubs so why not try them at an international level. Cahill in particular proved himself adept at slotting in when needed when he replaced Dawson. Glen Johnson and Ashley Cole have made the full-back slots their own with the prospect of the talented Kieron Gibbs champing at the bit.

The midfield is where the most talent lies. Adam Johnson is the most exiting player in the England squad at the moment. It's fantastic to see a player who possess all the traits of an old fashioned winger: someone who wants to take on players, beat them and whip in a deadly cross. Nurtured properly, he could be the creative and penetrative spark that England have been lacking since the days of John Barnes and Chris Waddle. Theo Walcott has also proved in recent weeks why he should have been in South Africa and looks set for a regular spot on the right of midfield. With Johnson on the other wing, England could have a pair of irresistable, creative and goal-scoring flanks.

James Milner and Tom Huddlestone are also players who have exciting international prospects but need to be given a chance. Of the current crop, Gareth Barry has made the holding role his own and, looking further ahead, Jack Wilshere, under the tutelage of Arsene Wenger will certainly take over from Gerrard/Lampard as England's Trequartista in the heart of midfield.

Jermaine Defoe looks to be settling in alongside Wayne Rooney as the goal-getters up front with strikers like Darren Bent waiting in the wings with a string of fine performances domestically.

Here's hoping that so long as Signor Capello sticks with this new blend, that the young guns provide successful, attacking and above all, an attractive brand of football.