Croatians may cause a surprise

FOR the World Cup Final, all form – and logic – points to a France win.

Yet, I have a sneaking feeling for Croatia.

I know that sounds a bit mad, but it’s just they have that... something!

Call it spirit, mental strength or sheer bloodymindedness. Call it winning.

They have found a way to win whatever is thrown in their way, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they do it again.

They have built their progress through this tournament on an incredible spine.

I’ve seen Danijel Subasic’s save against Harry Kane again in slow motion – and that has to be the stop of the tournament.

Dejan Lovren has been outstanding, which I’m pleased about – not because he plays for Liverpool – but because I’ve been defending him for two years as a top-class player.

Luka Modric is one of the most understated, but technically gifted stars in the world, and his ability to dictate the tempo of a game is unrivalled.

And Mario Mandzukic does everything right as a proper centre-forward.

France’s spine, you could argue, is even better.

But I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Croatia find a little more of that special something one final time.