I tried to avoid it for as long as possible, but eventually I had to write today’s World Cup post over on Sidepodcast. I have watched more of the games than I imagined I would, and enjoyed even more of them. A lot of that has to do with the live comments, as it’s fair to say I have a lot to learn!

On that subject, I wanted to note down some of the things I have picked up after just a few days of international football. I will be an absolute expert by the end of this, you mark my words.

• That Gerrard fella is pretty good.
• 10-0-0 is all about defending.
• You’re not allowed to tackle from behind, even if you say sorry afterwards.
• For some reason I have already heard of Ruud van Nistelrooy.
• Injury time is confusing, and blood is not allowed.
• Fabio Capello shouts and gesticulates quite a lot. I am used to seeing the Sven statue.
• Emile is a nice name.
• The referees are very yellow. I don’t like yellow.
• Germany are really good at passing the ball about.
• Shaun Wright-Phillips is Ian Wright’s son. That is way cool, although I keep calling him Steven.
• Even though I know what the offside rule is, I’m not very good at spotting it. You need about six pairs of eyes, I reckon.
• Goalkeepers can be captains too.