A Cure for those going through World Cup Friendlies withdrawal

It is hard to believe that it has already been almost a full month since the World Cup ended, but such is the case and by rule of law, or perhaps a supreme being, it is mandated that it is now time that we get back to watching national teams kick the ball around.

Beginning next week, the same teams that you cheered and jeered in Germany will be taking part in a round of friendlies that will serve as a warm up for, well, who really knows. But in any case, this means that all sorts of roster announcements are being released, including the following:

Poland’s squad for its match against Denmark. Keeper Jerzy Dudek gets a chance to impress new coach Leo Beenhakker, formerly of T&T fame.

Speaking of Trinidad and Tobago, they’ll go with a young team when they square off against Japan. Young, if you ignore the fact that Dwight Yorke is still around. Worth noting that the Soca Warriors are being led by a man named Wim, coach Wim Rijsbergen. I like the name Wim. Almost sounds like “win”.

Croatia has a new coach and some new players for its game against World Cup champions Italy. I’m betting at least one player picks up three cards in this match.

More roster announcements to come as we build up towards August 16 when there are more meaningless games that you can shake a stick at.

You can also get more news about world football over at our sister site, The Offside.