In 1966 England did not Qualify as they were host and in 1970 they did not qualify as holders so that makes 10 including this year.

Qualifying is qualifying. A qualfication as Champions and World Cup Holders in 1970 - is still a qualification for the final stages on merit. You could argue that being the host country in 1966 is also a qualification.

But I will give you that one - if you accept that this statement - Just remeber that Scotland have been to more World Cups than England! - is wrong. And that The England team has in fact now qualified more times than Scotland - as well as actually winning it for the first time in 1966.

The second time will be in 2006! When I confidently predict that England will beat the host country 4-2 - after extra time (with the help of a Russian linesman).