I’m sure there’s a link with France versus Mexico and the unconvincing displays of Raymond Domenech’s squad.

Much was made of the make up of the world champions in 1998 – France was called “black, blanc, beur” in reference to the racial mix of the squad; players of African, Maghreb (north Africa) and classic white European (i.e. French ) origin.

Now with France all but on the plane home, and Algeria facing England tonight – so many of my friends and colleagues are suddenly Algerian.

And why not?

During the Six Nations rugby I often call on my own mixed heritage to support the team in form: England born, Welsh on my dad’s side, Irish on my mother’s, and in fact I think because I pay my taxes in France I have a claim to be French too. So I have a few shots at backing the winning team.

Tonight though I am English. I see a large victory for England, 5 nil, based on the belief Fabio’s team can’t play as badly, as they did against USA, twice? We’ll see. Or maybe a 1 nil win to Algeria. I’m hoping to catch the game with our house security team – many of whom are from Algeria.