Exciting times for England – Fifa World Cup 2014

Roy Hodgson has generally been seen as someone who prefers experience over youth but his 23 man England squad for the World Cup has seen him make some brave decisions which have been applauded my most. I don’t think anyone is labeling the Three Lions as the favorites in Brazil but this squad has got legs, flair and skill which is why I feel that these our exciting times for England.

I’m so pleased to see the likes of Sturridge, Lallana, Barkley, Sterling and Luke Shaw make it to the squad. They have been outstanding for their respective clubs and at their age, they are only going to get better. They are the future. They might be inexperienced but they have the skills required to compete at the highest level.

Daniel sturridge has thrived playing with Luis Suarez and has been scoring goals for fun all season. Raheem Sterling has matured as the season has gone by and his pace and ability to beat players could prove to be pivotal. He might not start every game but he is someone you can call in for the last 2o minutes and he can make most of the ‘tired’ legs of the opposition players. Ross Barkley has been sensational. He has stepped into this Everton side and he plays like someone who has been there for so many years. He has got great ability to run with the ball and he has great confidence in his ability. Adam Lallana is the heart and soul of the current Southampton side and it’s fitting that England have a natural left foot player to play on the left side of the midfield. The lad can run with the ball, he sees a pass and he scores goals.

They have got some great talent in this squad. Jordan Henderson is another player whom I feel could have a major influence on this England side. He has been outstanding for Liverpool and his energy and bursts from midfield will be crucial for England. They also have the experience of  Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard along with the versatility of James Milner and the talented Jack Wilshere. It’s a very strong midfield in my opinion and they have good options up front  with Rooney, Sturridge, Welbeck and Lambert.

They lack experience heads at the back and the likes of Cole, Terry and Ferdinand will be missed. However, Gary Cahill has been a rock for Chelsea this season and he is likely to be partnered by either Jagielka, Jones or Smalling. Glen Johnson will start at right back and the excellent Leighton Baines on the left. With the commanding Joe Hart in-goal, I really see this side as a very strong side. I just hope that the players are allowed to express themselves because England have got a quite a few players who can make things happen and bring people out of their seats. I can’t wait!