As Australia underwent a leadership change on Thursday, there was much debate if Kevin Rudd’s leadership style was the reason behind his demise. In the wake of the historical change, it’s a good time to assess the best leadership style at the World Cup.
Who’s the best captain at the tournament?
The initial question is what does one expect from a captain?
On and off field leadership, whether it’s with words or actions are probably key criteria.
It’s the reason England boss Fabio Capello stripped John Terry of the captaincy after his off-field turmoil.
A national captain is more difficult to select than club, with the coach needing to ensure his leader is an automatic selection when fit.
Steven Gerrard replaced Terry as the leader of England.
The Liverpool captain has been criticized for been too silent on the park as a player who relies on his on-field actions to do the talking.
He scored England’s first goal of the tournament and has arguably been its best player in South Africa thus far.
There are captains like Australia’s Lucas Neill and Brazil’s Lucio, two players who are very vocal on the pitch from centre back.
Both are undoubtedly blessed with ability, but revving up their team with vocal encouragement is a key.
For the most part, a team’s best player is not given the armband.
Added pressure is one of the reasons often given but it is also general leadership skills.
It’s not always the case.
Portugal’s decision to have star Cristiano Ronaldo as captain can be considered an unusual one.
Ronaldo is undoubtedly a quality player – one of the best in the world – but is there a better option for captain?
The Real Madrid star can turn a game in a moment but questions can be raised over his temperament.
His body language can be a key indicator of a struggling individual and his often been criticized of playing for himself.
He may have matured at the age of 25, but are Ricardo Carvalho or even shot stopper Eduardo safer choices?
Similar questions can be raised over Argentine Javier Mascherano’s leadership credentials.
A choice between a leader who relies on his actions, a vocal captain or one who can do a little bit of both would depend much on the coach.
What would be your choice? Who’s the best captain at the World Cup?
Rabbitz
Roar Guru
Nick Farr-Jones? :) (Sorry couldn't resist)
JonnyP
Guest
Interestingly when all the kerfuffle about Terry's captaincy blew up Capello said he removed him just to kill the story, he didn't see what all the fuss about the captain was. I can't quote him exactly but he basically said "In Italy we usually just make the oldest player captain". ( Although having seen Italy's performance perhaps they could have done with someone to fire the team up)
drew777
Roar Pro
Skipper on England; possibly Lampard? I don't think the guys would have had an issue with Terry as captain despite the off field turmoil.
Andyroo
Guest
Yeh has to be Nelson just because without him NZ are a bit of a rabble. I think he's the difference between their con fed form and thei world cup form.
Dejan Kalinic
Roar Guru
I'm not sure about reluctant. I don't think there would be too many who are reluctant to lead their country. I don't mind Mascherano, I'm just worried if someone pushes the right buttons he'll do something silly. But he has a great team around him so let's hope that doesn't happen. Who would you have as captain of England? I don't think there's too many who could do the job and handle the enormous pressure.
Bodhi
Guest
Leading by example and ever present would be Argentina's Javier Mascherano. Has the potential to be a great captain. Stevie G needs to lift into that role and looks like a reluctant captain.
Dejan Kalinic
Roar Guru
Good pick Boulty! Nelsen has a load of experience. He captains Blackburn in the English Premier League as well!
Boulty
Guest
I don't watch much football but have enjoyed what Ive watched,but wouldn't Ryan Nelson have to be up there.I'm sure NZ wouldn't have got the results they achieved if it wasn't for him