World Cup Countdown - James Tomkins

James Tomkins chose the patriotic route when opting for his favourites to win this summer's FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

The Hammers defender, capped 10 times by England at U21 level earlier in his career, would love to see the Three Lions triumph, although he admits that will be no easy task.

 "Am I allowed to say England or not?" he smiled. "Let's say if it's not England, then Spain because of their style of play and their attacking threat.

"Belgium would pose an outside threat, they've got some great players. I can see them getting to the quarters or the semis.

"They're not a massive country, but people might see team as a threat because of the players they've got.

"As for England, hopefully they don't get any injuries to the starting XI, and I think they can pose a threat because they've got players who are involved in the Premier League week in, week out, and that's the best league in the world."

With Spain one of his picks to challenge for the title, Tomkins also expects one of their midfield stars to shine on the biggest stage too.

He added: "I reckon Iniesta will be the outstanding player of the tournament. I love him as a player, and playing for Spain if they go all the way then he'd be in the looking for the Player of the Tournament."