Will the Home Nations qualify for WC 2010?

England are in a strong position, and if they beat Ukraine on Wednesday will have one foot in the finals. They were impressive in their 4-0 friendly win over Slovakia but the unbeaten Eastern Europeans will be a much sterner test. England are already 5 points clear and will maintain that advantage with a victory.

Northern Ireland look the next best placed – they are getting carried away by their first chance to qualify since time immemorial (Jonny Evans has issued a ‘rallying cry’) – and top their group. However, it must be noted that if the other sides win their games in hand (Slovakia, Czech Republic, Slovenia – even Poland if they improve their goal difference) they all go ahead of the Irishmen.

Scotland were taught a footballing lesson by Holland, losing 3-0 in Amsterdam, and their only avenue now comes through the ‘best runner up’ spot. However, only the top eight go through; and though it should be within their capabilities to finish ahead of Iceland, Macedonia and Norway it is more than possible they won’t – and even if they do they need more points than other runners up.

The Republic of Ireland were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Bulgaria in Dublin, but are still in a good position and qualification is in their own hands (albeit needing to beat Italy). They are seven points clear of third, though, and will be well placed amongst the runners up.

Wales suffered an abject 2-0 defeat at home to Finland; and unfortunately for them, the qualification dream is now as good as over.

This will be updated again after Wednesday’s matches – let’s wait and see if the outlook changes…