Fabio Capello has achieved the first part of his plan by leading England to the World Cup finals in South Africa.
But if England are to become the best team on the planet there are still some issues for the Italian to address.
Goalkeeper
David James's position as England's No1 is probably assured unless Capello entrusts the keeper position to another player for a lengthy period prior to the World Cup. Robert Green has started five successive matches and must continue if he is to gain the experience, while Ben Foster and Paul Robinson must raise their games.
Right-back
Dynamic in attack but defensively suspect, Glen Johnson remains a risky proposition against the best teams. Wes Brown offers more stability but has suffered with injury and is better at centre-back. No one else has started at right-back in 16 matches since Croatia last visited Wembley when Micah Richards got the nod. Remember him?
David Beckham
Beckham looks a relic when compared to the pace of Theo Walcott and Aaron Lennon but his dead-ball delivery remains one of the best in the world. No longer justifies a starting place but is an excellent option from the bench - another loan spell away from the MLS will ensure he stays fit.
Who plays up front with Rooney?
Capello will choose based on who gets the best out of Wayne Rooney. Emile Heskey's lack of a goal threat is offset by the focal point he provides. Peter Crouch is more of an all-round package, while Jermain Defoe, despite his great form, is seen as back-up to Rooney. Carlton Cole must continue his improvement.
Players on outside looking in
Michael Owen must find the form for Manchester United to ally with his international pedigree to force his inclusion as Capello has never ruled out a return. Darren Bent has fallen out of favour, while Scott Carson, David Bentley, Jermaine Jenas and Jonathan Woodgate are running out of time.
Risk on injured players?
Joe Cole has started only three games under Capello but given his pedigree, a reasonable level of form on his return for Chelsea will warrant his inclusion. Stewart Downing needs a blistering start at Aston Villa, while Kieron Dyer has an outside chance.
