TheFA.com's Insider saw England's final training session before Saturday.

As we made the very short trip up the road from our Royal Marang Hotel, the reality of the World Cup moved very sharply into focus.

Abandoning the seclusion and tranquility of the team base, and entering the Royal Bafokeng Stadium for the traditional pre-match training session is a rite of passage, especially for the opening game of a World Cup.

To breathe in the surroundings, to erase the unknowns and picture every step from arrival to the final whistle. From Fabio Capello through to his players and staff, each step of the journey is taken with considered appreciation.

Despite the proximity of the first match, there is still a relaxed atmosphere around the hotel. From the players on the snooker table, to everyone convening together earlier this afternoon to watch the opening ceremony and the first match, all is calm.

But by the same token, everyone is acutely aware that when it comes to business, you must assume your game face. When it comes to work, there is no time for fun and games.

For an hour in the Royal Bafokeng Stadium the players were worked over by Fabio, for the last time before England start their World Cup campaign. He was very open to the media that he knows his team for the first match, but that he will not share it with the 23 players until they meet together at the hotel on Saturday afternoon before boarding the bus for the match.

It is his style, and has been his process for all 24 of his games in charge of England. Now a World Cup is upon us, I don't think anyone thought he would change it now.

There are just hours now that separate England, who will wear their home kit of white shirts, white shorts and white socks,  from the United States. Soon the waiting will be over.