ENGLAND READY TO MOVE ON

  • Posted on: 11 November 2011

England are getting ready for an international friendly against the World and European Champions, but will have a brave new look about them now that coach Fabio Capello has left out a few of the previously key performers out of the squad.

After the severe criticism for their tepid performances in last years World Cup Finals, commentators and fans alike have been calling for new blood to be brought into the squad, to try and give the team a fresh impetus and enthusiasm. With England now safely qualified, capello finally feels its safe to give these youngsters a run out - and it could well spell the end for the seasoned England players.

Current captain John Terry made the squad but will not be used, with Capello keen to keep him in the background whilst the police and FA investigations in alledged racist abuse lingers on. His deputy and centre-back partner Rio Ferdinand has been left on the sidelines altogether, with Fabio agreeing with Sir Alex Ferguson that Rio has lost a yard of pace over recent years. This means England will have a completely new centre-back pairing (most likely facing Manchester United's Phil Jones).

Frank Lampard has struggled to get into the first team in recent months, and Steven Gerrard will also be missing because of an infection in his ankle, meaning a completely new look centre-midfield.

Finally, up-front Wayne Rooney has been left at home. after his abject performances in South africa Capello is looking for someone else to lead the line, especially as the fiery United star is suspended for all three of England's Group games.

It should offer an opportunity for the likes of Ashley Young, Danny Welbeck, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Jack Rodwell to stake their claim on a first-team spot, and will be an interesting game to watch (for once!)