Two uncapped players in England World Cup squad

The Editor — Mon, May 8th 2006

Only 2 fit strikers picked

Aaron Lennon and Theo Walcott are in Eriksson’s provisional World Cup squad.

Only 4 strikers are picked - 2 of whom are injured. Walcott leap-frogged attackers Darren Bent and Jermain Defoe for the fourth spot.

Eriksson said: “I am taking 23 players so I thought why not gamble with one of them?” - but surely Rooney is the gamble?

Shaun Wright-Phillips is the suprise omission after some lively performances for England in recent friendlies.

Listed in: Competitions, World Cup, Countries, England

Comments

The biggest surprise has to be the inclusion yet again of Owen Hargreaves. His contribution to the England team has always been very weak. Our midfield players and options are very strong without the need for the inclusion of Hargreaves. The experience and quality of Defoe should have been given the nod over Hargreaves’ inclusion.

Otherwise, it’s a strong yet predictable squad. A lot of experience in defence with Neville, Terry and Cole, and a wonderful array of attacking flair in midfield with Lampard, Gerrard and Beckham. Joe Cole could prove to be an excellent asset, especially if he plays with confidence.

The stage is set for Walcott should Rooney not be able to make a miraculous recovery, and although it sounds like a gamble, the fact that the rest of the world don’t know an awful lot about Walcott could be to England’s advantage.

Sven is going all out to win this competition, and that should be applauded.

Scott at 3:14 PM on Monday, May 08, 2006

I agree about Hargreaves - I’m not sure what he adds to the squad. I was surprised Phil Neville didn’t sneak back in.

Walcott is a great wildcard inclusion, but I’d have preferred him as a 5th choice striker, not as potentially the 2nd if injuries don’t clear up.

.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) at 3:20 PM on Monday, May 08, 2006

The Fan