On the Trot: Half of an International Break

The first round of international matches is over, and the biggest story is undoubtedly the success of Gary Cahill. When he was called up, I wrote a rather pessimistic post on it, saying he would never play anyway. Obviously Capello read that and decided to spite me, although I was by no means the only one who was surprised when Gaz was handed a start for the Euro qualifier against Bulgaria. He didn't disappoint either, for more on that check out Mark's earlier post.

Unfortunately that night, Martin Petrov found himself playing against his club teammate, for an impotent Bulgaria. In fact, the wayward Wanderer was one of Bulgaria's few bright spots in attack for his country. Elsewhere Ivan Klasnic started for Croatia in their 3-1 win over Malta, and played 45 minutes. Adam Bogdan watched his Hungary pull off a 2-1 win over Sweden from the bench. 

As for the younger contingent, Mark Connolly started for the Republic of Ireland U21's comfortable 2-1 win over Hungary U21. Lastly, a congratulations to Jack Sampson who made his England U19 debut on Thrusday against Holland as a 65th minute substitute. Sampson has been regularly playing (and scoring) for the reserves for a while, and it's nice to see him start to get credit for it.

There is another round of matches set for the beginning of next week, and we will, of course, be bringing you a report on all the Wanderer-y action that takes place.