Alan Hansen on the upcoming World Cup tournament

by Mark Chang for PMF News

In an exclusive interview with PMF News, Alan Hansen has tipped Italy to
take home the trophy this summer. He reasoned that after winning second
place in the recent European Championships and with Argentina and France
seemingly on the decline as an international side, Italy should be the
strongest team left.

"You have to look at the quality of the defence," Hansen stated, "and also
their options up front. Inzaghi, Totti, Chiesa, and Fiore are all dynamic,
intelligent players who can pull goals from no where... You also have to
remember that for a few of the players this will be their last chance to
take part in a world cup - notably di Livio and Maldini - they'll be
wanting to make their impression upon the international scene!"

He also suggested that Portugal, Russia, Slovenia, and China could all
exceed expectations for the tournament and said that he would not be
surprised if the Republic of Ireland came top of Group E with Voller's side
failing to make the second round.

The Italians are in Group G with Ecuador, Croatia, and Mexico.
Trapattoni's side for the finals is expected to remain as it is, with only
one player Coco (Barcelona) coming from outside the Italian Serie A.