Whilst recently watching the very boring Ireland v England friendly, I realised that we consistently start weak/old teams. We have so much young talent in our country and we just need to let the kids play! I am almost certain that England will not win the World Cup in Brazil, but we can use it as a stepping-stone for France 2016 and Russia 2018. That’s if we just put a young side out.
If Hodgson is adamant 4-4-2 is the best way to go for the Three Lions, then here are my alternatives. Hodgson is a good manager but his selection isn’t always right.
Goalkeeper:
Hodgson’s choice: Joe Hart is one of the only players who has a cemented position in our national side. Yet, his form this season was inconsistent and at times he was a liability for City. Just cast your mind back to 12 months ago, when there were arguments about whether he was the best keeper in the world. He just needs to recapture some of that world-class form.
Alternatives: Jack Butland is a hugely promising Goalkeeper. He is not ready for the international stage as a no.1. Yet. After a few seasons as Stoke’s first choice, I am sure he will be challenging Hart. Only a stoppage time consolation goal from Messi could stop Fraser Forster from recording a rare clean sheet as Celtic took down Barcelona. The 25 year old is also a good prospect.
Right Back:
Hodgson’s choice: Glen Johnson.
Alternatives: Kyle Walker is the obvious alternative choice to Johnson. His youthful attacking style gives him a good chance of stealing the white jersey of his Liverpool rival before Brazil. It’s not their number one position but Phil Jones and Chris Smalling can both put in solid defensive displays at right back with little attacking bursts.
Left Back:
Hodgson’s choice: Ashley Cole
Alternatives: Attacking full backs Ryan Bertrand and Kieran Gibbs will both be battling for the left back position in years to come (along with 17 year old Southampton starlet Luke Shaw). Gibbs, unlike Bertrand, starts every week for his club. From this, we know he is reliable. Bertrand doesn’t start often at Stamford Bridge because of Ashley Cole, but we know he can step in at the very top level. His European debut was in the Champions League final! Those two will get their chances, as should Leighton Baines. Leighton Baines this season has been unbelievable, sparking interest from Manchester United. He has received praise from anyone and everyone. He has had a much better season than Cole. So why doesn’t he start ahead of Ashley?
Centre Backs:
Hodgson’s choices: Gary Cahill and Phil Jagielka
Alternatives: The recent international retirements of John Terry and Rio Ferdinand have opened up a door for central defenders. Phil Jones and Chris Smalling (again!) both prefer playing in the middle and can both play the position effectively. Phil Jones has got to be the best centre back England has produced since the discoveries of JT and Rio (possibly). Smalling is not far behind. Jones and Smalling formed a great partnership at the under 21 European Championships in 2011. If Roy really wanted to bring in the youth then those two could start in 2014. Joleon Lescott is tried, tested and consistent. He is always an option. Stephen Caulker is another very good young defender. He plays well for Tottenham and has played well for England and Great Britain when called up.