England slide in the rankings

England have fallen down to eighth in the latest FIFA world rankings, despite consecutive victories in their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

Fabio Capello's men have fallen behind Uruguay, Portugal, Italy and Brazil in the standings, which are based on the results of the last four years. Those looking at the betting won't be too surprised.

Their recent form has been good, after beating Bulgaria 4-0 in Sofia, and Wales 1-0 at Wembley, as they sit top of Group G in the Euro 2012 qualifying table, and remain unbeaten in the group.

World Champions Spain are back to number one in the rankings, after leapfrogging Holland who fall to second place.

Germany reaming in third after winning all eight of their qualifying games, and have already booked a place for the finals of Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine.

Copa America champions Uruguay moved up to fourth place after winning their continental football tournament. They beat Paraguay in the final to win the event for the 15th time. They beat Argentina and Peru on the way to picking up the trophy. Fans of Betfair will have to keep an eye on them.

Wales are amongst the biggest climbers, and are now in the world's top 100, after moving up 27 places. This follows their Euro 2012 qualifying win in Group G over Montenegro.

Republic of Ireland and Scotland both move up the table. Ireland climb up two positions to 29th thanks to draws against Slovakia and Russia. Whilst the Scots edge up three places to 52nd following a win over Lithuania and an impressive draw against Czech Republic.

However, Northern Ireland lose ground in the rankings, moving down to 70th, 11 places below their previous standing. Defeats to Serbia and Estonia have taken effect on their position for Nigel Worthington's team.