After much effort I come to the final assessment of the English squad. The wide midfielders or wingers as they are called.
Certain
Ashley Young |
Ashley Young-The former Aston Villa man has been simply superb at Manchester United this season. Ever since his debut for United, he has been brilliant on the left wing. Despite having a few injury concerns which have limited his appearance for the club this season he has always been first pick when fit. Having fully justified his 20 million price tag since his transfer, he will provide the much needed flair and pace to the English game. I believe that his fantastic form for United will continue and he will be an integral part in this years Euro competition.
Chances: 10/10
James Milner |
James Milner- Another former Villa man and now a Manchester City player, James Milner is England’s best bet on the right wing. After proving his Premier League exploits at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, he made a big money transfer to Manchester City. Widely preferred in the first season he now has lost his place initially to Adam Johnson this season, but this seems to have worked out in his favor in having developed the ability to play as a central midfielder too. This ability coupled with his experience should see him on the plane to Poland-Ukraine. I personally believe that James Milner is an impact man, who can be introduced into the game at any point and in any midfield position, and yet make a big impact.
Chances: 10/10
Probables
Theo Walcott |
Theo Walcott – Theo Walcott is among the few Arsenal players I enjoy watching. Extremely agile and creative he is one of the few players who on their day can run rings around opposing defenders. Yet unfortunately for Walcott those days don’t come often enough. His inconsistency has been among one of the prime reasons for his constant in-and-out from the English National Squad. If he is in form his flamboyant partnership with Ashley Young on the wings would complement the stability and accuracy provided by Lampard/Gerard.
Chances: 8/10
Joe Cole |
Joe Cole – The former Chelsea veteran had a terrible season at Liverpool before he decided to move to French champions Lille for this season on loan. If truth be said, he has shown what he is capable of doing in Ligue 1. Having already notched up a hat trick once and having provided numerous assists and crucial goals, he has resurrected his flagging career and is once again in the race for place in the national side. His partnership with Eden Hazard across the flanks has stunned his critics and a permanent switch seems imminent. Coming back to national side he will prove efficient on either wing and can also spearhead the attack if needed. His speed during the final minutes of a game when opposition defenders are tired is a known threat.
Chances: 7/10
Adam Johnson |
Adam Johnson - This Manchester City player is among the few players whose career at big clubs has been limited to bit roles and impact performances. Something which players like Salomon Kalou and Dirk Kuyt have mastered over the years. His accurate crosses and defense splitting passes have been well documented. The former Middlesborough man is a unique supersub like Joe Cole who has provided consistent performances from the bench. Although lacking a bit experience to be first team material, he just might make it into the EURO squad.
Chances: 6/10
Bolt From the Blue
Aaron Lennon |
Aaron Lennon – Having sat out for majority of the season, he is now fit and raring to go. He was on the bench for the Chelsea game, he has only two months to prove his worth and make an entry into the team. Having handled the mantle of the being one of the integral right wingers for Spurs it will be extremely difficult to overlook him. He is well known for his darting runs which leaves opposition defenders stunned. Though I personally believe that he does not deserve to be in the squad even if he is fit and in form, as two months should not overshadow any other winger who has been playing well for the entire season.
Chances: 3/10
David Beckham – The grand old man of English Football moved to the relative ease of United States football after some legendary spells at Manchester United and Real Madrid and a few decent spells at Italian giants AC Milan. An Achilles injury prevented him from joining the 2010 FIFA World Cup squad but a fantastic season at Los Angeles galaxy in which he probably made more appearances than all the previous seasons put together, has put him on the path for a shock return to the English side he once proudly and successfully captained. Known for his thunderous free kicks and ability to play in the right, left and central midfield position, he is an asset to have in the team and a true motivational genius. Having led Los Angeles Galaxy to an MLS League triumph this year, he is in fine form. The EUROS could be a well deserved farewell to the International scene for one of England’s and the World’s true superstars. I think he deserves a place in the squad.
Chances: 4/10
David Beckham |
My Picks: Ashley Young, James Milner, Theo Walcott/Joe Cole/David Beckham (2 out of 3)
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https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/04/09/englands-euro-squad-midfielders-part-1/
https://www.sportskeeda.com/2012/03/31/englands-euro-squad-defenders-partii-full-backs/