Game on

If this World Cup turns out to be half as dramatic as the build-up, then we are in for a rare old treat. Roy Keane, Ireland's fiery skipper, has been sent packing after a bust-up with his manager. A civil war broke out in the Swedish camp as team pin-up Fredrik Ljungberg tried to knock seven bells out of Olof Mellberg. England must be pleased to see their group opponents taking chunks out of each other, since their own captain is barely able to kick a ball at present; indeed, their midfield has more damaged legs than an IKEA returns warehouse. But at least they made it to Japan: the Cameroon team refused to leave the airport until paid.

No wonder football is so popular. We should give thanks to the organisers who insisted training sessions were open to the press, allowing us a glimpse of these fine athletes at work. And we can only wonder what lies ahead. Will bekilted Scots turn up and start shouting for "In-ger-land"? Will the Brazilians adopt the long-ball tactic? Will the Germans lose on penalties? Only a week to go now.