Magnificent, wonderful, that's what we want to see - an England side with some balance and attacking intent. Unfortunately, it all came about by force iof circumstance!

Frank Lampard is injured, so Steven Gerrard is released from the shackles imposed upon him. Owen Hargreaves is unfit, so Gareth Barry comes in and (unexpectedly, although probably not to Aston Villa fans) adds balance and forward thinking to England's midfield.

And up front, Emile Heskey is unbelievable - his touch, power and vision reminiscent of Alan Shearer at times (though not his finishing). Micah Richards has everything required to become an England legend, and Shaun Wright-Phillips is now being allowed to show just how good he is.

But think on, England supporters. If Peter Crouch, Gary Neville or David Beckham had been available against Israel, how many of these players would have been on the beach at Marbella, rather than on the pitch at Wembley?

I, for one, was amazed that Heskey was picked in the squad, but was it inspiration or desperation that brought about his inclusion by an England manager on the brink? Let's face facts, McClown only brought Beckham back because he feared for his job. Personally, the manager's reputation went into freefall for me after that particular episode - not that it was exceptionally high previously!

So before too many fans fall into the trap we more experienced supporters have sprung so many times before, and start believing that a fresh dawn is broaching the horizon, take heed of that niggling doubt tickling the back of your brain.