Let's hope it's the end of lean times

Since Italian supporters have had nothing to cheer in European club competitions it is now extremely important that Italy do well in the World Cup. Such lean times at club level do not happen very often, so now everyone will be looking to the national team.

Much will depend on Francesco Totti. If he has a good World Cup then Italy will as well. He is very influential and he has the ability to change a game. Totti is one of those special players like Alessandro Del Piero. They are the sort of players (similar to Roberto Baggio) who are very important to any team.

I believe Italy could be among the teams who figure prominently. They certainly have the players. They also, traditionally, defend well and are good competitors. In Gianluigi Buffon and Francesco Toldo, they have two of the best goalkeepers in the world.

The first phase always seems to be difficult for Italy and they sometimes struggle. But they have the capacity to go through their group and, after that, so much is down to good fortune. By that I mean one corner or one free-kick can decide what happens.

Sometimes a team's tradition can help. The Italians know they have a good record and this will give them confidence. For me they are capable of at least reaching the last four.

But there are several other teams who also have that potential.

France certainly have along with England, Argentina and Germany. And you can never ignore Brazil.

What will make the difference between success and failure? Good physical condition and a good group of players, particularly those who can change things in a moment like David Beckham. He can score incredible free-kicks that can switch the advantage in an instant.

Of the other teams, I have a regard for Spain. Cameroon are better than many people think and the Republic of Ireland can surprise, although losing Roy Keane is obviously a blow. They are the kind of team who can get better as the tournament progresses.