Here is a team of players who failed to sparkle in South Africa. Like the all-star team of the 2010 World Cup, the selection process for the Worst XI is also based on the players’ performance in this particular event. For instance, it would be ridiculous to say Rooney is one among the worst.
Goalkeeper, Robert Green: He lost his place in England’s starting XI after his howler against the US. In hindsight, the blunder proved to be costly, as England had to meet Germany in the round of 16.
Right-back, Glen Johnson: The Liverpool fullback symbolised England’s shallow talent pool. His touches were awful throughout. One had to wonder why the Reds signed him for a fortune from Portsmouth.
Central defender, Fabio Cannavaro: The world turned upside down for the Italian captain in four years. After leading Italy to their fourth title in Germany, Cannavaro, long in the tooth and short in all aspects of the game, was an Azzurri liability in SA.
Central defender, Martin Demichelis: The Bayern Munich player was the leader of Argentina’s calamitous backline. His lapse in concentration resulted in a goal for South Korea in the group stage. Left-back, Ashley Cole: Nothing is going right for the England defender. After a lingering spat with his celebrity wife Cheryl, the Chelsea star would have hoped that the World Cup would offer him solace.
Midfielder, Maxi Rodriguez: Maxi shed a copious amount of tears after Argentina’s loss at the hands of Germany. Did he mourn his country’s exit or his woeful performance?
Midfielder, Felipe Melo: The Juventus defensive midfielder set up a goal for his team, scored one for his opponents before stamping on Robben in the quarters.
Midfielder, Javier Mascherano: He was the captain of Argentina on paper but he wasn’t a leader on the pitch. He couldn’t even excel in his defensive role in the middle.
Midfielder, Franck Ribery: An anticipated redemption didn’t materialise for the Bayern Munich star who was entangled in a sex scandal before the World Cup.
Forward, Wayne Rooney: The failure of the great English hope was total in SA. Man U’s Alex Ferguson has said the 2014 World Cup will be Rooney’s.
Forward, Nicolas Anelka: He is called the Incredible Sulk at home in France for his eternal petulance.