World Cup Predictions: who are the stars backing to shine in Germany? Let's see how Ian Atkins' tips shape up

Givemefootball's trawling the world of football to get the thoughts of current and former professionals regarding the forthcoming World Cup. Ian Clarkson caught up with Torquay manager Ian Atkins just before he jetted off to Portugal for a summer holiday - and discovered he was following the general consensus over who will emerge triumphant.

I am going to select Brazil, England, Italy and Spain. I have chosen Brazil because they are the best in the world whilst England look like a team who are starting to enjoy playing together. There always seems to be a crisis before Italy comes into a tournament but they always emerge during the finals and I think they are undefeated in something like 16 games. Spain aren't usually the greatest travellers but Germany isn't far and they possess a lot of flair, organisation and real talent within their squad.

Czech Republic. I was working for the FA last year and was sent to watch their final qualifying game against Holland. They lost 2-0 but you can disregard the result, as they were exceptional. It was one of those evenings where nothing quite goes for you, but they absolutely battered the Dutch. Tomas Rosicky was excellent in midfield while Milan Baros caused all sorts of problems up front. They are a temperamental side but they are real dark horses, as they will cause anyone problems on the day if they fancy it.

I don't think you can look beyond Sweden. Paraguay will make some noises and try to bully England, but I can't see any problems there. The law of averages says we have to beat Sweden as it has been so long since we last did. However, they might have a psychological edge because of that record and that is a big part of football. They are also a good team and the front two are excellent as is their midfield. But, unusually for a Swedish team, I think they are vulnerable in defence.

As far as the semi finals or until they meet Brazil. I think Brazil will be too strong for most teams. But, once in a blue moon, they will have a game where they hit the woodwork and the opposition goalkeeper plays well and nothing goes for them. That might happen in this World Cup and the opposition takes advantage with a 1-0 victory. England are capable of doing that as they won't collapse and will keep a solid team shape. Paul Robinson will have to play very well though.

I think Italy are worth a punt. Before every single tournament there seems to be problems with the Italians and on this occasion it is the betting scandal overshadowing their build-up. People tend to forget them because of this, but you can't. They are the masters of reaching the last four of tournaments. They came within a whisker of beating France in Euro 2000 and are always methodical, organised and know how to win one-off games.

I know this isn't very original but I can't see beyond Ronaldinho. There might be other players who are stars in their own right. It is likely that one of the African teams like Ghana will produce a star, but you might not see them past the second round. However, you will see Ronaldinho for all of the tournament.

I am going to have to go for a Brazilian player again. But this time I will choose Adriano. As part of the Pro Licence course last year, we went to Inter Milan to watch them play and took in a game against Reggina. I watched him train and he was magnificent and he was just as good in the game.