World Cup 2010: 90 Seconds With Rolo Tomassi

As part of Gigwise’s musical guide to World Cup, we spoke to a host of artists about this summer’s tournament in South Africa.

Here, James from Rolo Tomassi talks to us about England’s chances...
 
Gigwise: Was Fabio Capello’s decision to leave Theo Walcott out of the 23-man England Squad a wise decision?

James: “As an Arsenal fan, I'll admit Theo hasn't had the best of seasons. However, I think this is largely down to him being burnt out after being used for U21 and the senior squad internationals last summer. If being picked for the England team is based on how you've performed over the previous season at club level then he didn't really really deserve to go. Whether its a wise decision is something else entirely!”

Gigwise: Who will be England’s key player at the World Cup this summer, and why? 

James: “As much as I usually dislike him, Wayne Rooney. He had an amazing season and can always pull it together when he needs to. Out of the four strikers we're taking he's by far the best finisher and can turn games around.”
 
Gigwise: Will England miss David Beckham?

James: “I think his presence rather than his playing will be missed. He's a sort of footballing national emblem. I was gutted for him when he got injured with this probably being his last opportunity to play in a competitive international tournament.”

Gigwise: Which country do you think poses the biggest threat to England’s chances?

James: “Well after the performance against Japan I'd probably say all of them! In our group I'd say the USA are the biggest threat. They did surprisingly well in the Confederations Cup and were unlucky not to beat Brazil in the final. One thing on our side is with some of their best players like Dempsey and Donovan having played in the Premier League, the England team will know what to expect.”
 
Gigwise: What’s your favourite football anthem of all time?

James: “With regards to England it has to be Three Lions. Euro 96' was the first tournament that I 'properly' followed and that song was released then. There are other footballing songs about Alan Shearer being a wanker that I enjoy but they aren't particularly relevant.”

Gigwise: If you could record your own song for England, what would it be and why?

James: “I have no idea! I'm not particularly patriotic and don't really think I could reflect the nation's footballing lad tendencies as well as they deserve to be represented.

Gigwise: If you could collaborate with any England player past or present, who would it be and why?

James: “Well, it wouldn't be John Barnes. That Mars advert has been doing my head in! Probably some kind of power balled with Steve McManaman. He looks like he could be a proper crooner in a Mick Hucknall kind of way.”

Gigwise: If you could change football in any way, what would it be?

James: “Schedule the season around our tours so I could try make it to more games.”

Gigwise: Where will you be watching the games this summer?

James: “In the comfort of my own house. We have a bad ass HD TV and are sorting out our garden so we can have BBQ's at half/full time. Its already been established as the World Cup base amongst our friends.”

Gigwise: Finally, can England win?

James: “I'd love to say yes but I just can't see it happening! Based on recent friendlies I just can't see us beating times like Spain and Holland who I reckon will go on to win it.”