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The tone of a game and a squad's relative composure are generated most often from the midfield.

In that sense, England has fallen short of the mark thus far. Despite their run of positive results, a lack of control persists as the undercurrent to their play. That has to change or Italy will never let them see the ball.

Scott Parker is rightfully lauded for his work rate and aggression. Yet, in the quarterfinals, he will need to show off his ability to hold the ball as well.

Too often the measured short ball is abandoned in favor of a speculative lob forward. That approach is highly speculative. It concedes possession too easily against a side that covets it.

Parker's relative ability to exude patience on the pitch is thus of critical importance on Sunday.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

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The Italians are stout in defense, but with just three in the back, they are not impenetrable.

There will be moments in this game when the two Italian wing-backs get caught up leaving the rest of the defense vulnerable to counterattack.

When that happens, someone on the English side has to be there with a touch of class to set up goals.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has enough speed to get in behind Christian Maggio. He also possesses the tactical ability to stretch the opposing center-backs in the final third.

However, Chamberlain has show the tendency to disappear from proceedings for long stretches. That cannot happen on Sunday.

If he shows up, he could be the Italian's worst nightmare and perhaps the difference maker.

Andrea Pirlo

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For long stretches, England looked completely disorganized against Ukraine.

And as good as the Ukrainians are, there is not a player on that roster who stacks up to Andrea Pirlo. His passing, creative ability and composure on the ball rank among the best in the world.

If in form, Pirlo can dictate proceedings. He directs most all of his team's offensive movement. Further, he has the ability to dominate possession and keep England off the ball.

Should he succeed on both fronts, England will stand little chance.

Wayne Rooney

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Rooney played well enough in his first game to get the Three Lions into the quarterfinals. Most notably, he scored his team's lone goal.

However, he looked a step off the pace throughout much of the first half. He also missed a golden opportunity to go ahead early.

Against a side like Italy, he has to be far sharper. To make a serious run at the finals, he needs to start turning in star performances.

Stepping up as the focal point of his team's attack on Sunday will be a great first step along that road.

Antonio Cassano

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Cassano is the forgotten danger man in the Azzurri attack.

Balotelli steals headlines and is perhaps a better finisher. Yet, Cassano is more impressive in terms of his ability to go at the defense and create chances.

Thus far, he has played well but has not been prolific on the scoresheet. But all it takes is a moment of magic and the volatile Cassano could carve his name into footballing lore.

Terry and Lescott would be wise to keep a watchful eye on him throughout the afternoon. He could be the difference maker.

Scott Parker

Alex Livesey/Getty Images

The tone of a game and a squad's relative composure are generated most often from the midfield.

In that sense, England has fallen short of the mark thus far. Despite their run of positive results, a lack of control persists as the undercurrent to their play. That has to change or Italy will never let them see the ball.

Scott Parker is rightfully lauded for his work rate and aggression. Yet, in the quarterfinals, he will need to show off his ability to hold the ball as well.

Too often the measured short ball is abandoned in favor of a speculative lob forward. That approach is highly speculative. It concedes possession too easily against a side that covets it.

Parker's relative ability to exude patience on the pitch is thus of critical importance on Sunday.