Michael: Joe Might Start

Michael Carrick believes Joe Cole can play his way to a place in the starting line up for England.

"I think he will do really well because he is one of those not a lot of people know much about," says his friend and midfield partner, currently resting up after missing out on England U21 duty because of recovery from an injection for his groin problem.

"He could come off the bench and set the World Cup alight, and if he does well he could maybe start a game - I hope he does because he deserves it.

"It could be like Michael Owen because he didn't start, came off the bench, did his stuff and started the next game.

"That is what Joey is probably looking for, and I hope he does it."

As for his hopes for West Ham next season, he says:

"If we keep improving I don't see why we can't get into Europe - it wasn't a bad season and you have got to be happy with finishing seventh."