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“Annnnnddd England have won the World Cup!”
It has been almost 50 years since an English fan has had the joy of celebrating a World Cup triumph. This is quite surprising, because of the fact that the English Premier League is one of the best if not, the best in the World.
We’ve put together a small XI of future English stars (U-22) that could change England’s tag of “perennial underachievers”
GK: Jack Butland(Birmingham City)Butland, aged 20, has been a revelation at Birmingham City. He has been linked to several clubs but hasn’t made his big move yet. If he gets the exposure at a big club he could be England’s consistent No.1 in the next few years
RB: Nathaniel Clyne (Southampton)This Southampton right-back has been instrumental in their brilliant defensive display this season. He has a passing success of 81%, which is an impressive feat for a 22 year old. He is expected to break in to England’s starting eleven soon enough.
RCB: Steven Caulker (Cardiff City)Cardiff’s 21 year old centre back has been a classy player playing for a poor team. He’s scored 2 of Cardiff’s 9 goals this season which is quite impressive for a centre back. He must improve his aerial ability and one on one tackling if he wants to break into the English team in the future.
LCB: Phil Jones (Manchester United)This defender from Manchester United has been termed as “One of my best signings” by Sir Alex Ferguson due to his versatility of playing in different positions. He’s been used in various positions and is known for his clinical marking. At a young age of 21 he already seems to be a star in the English national team and will definitely get more game time after the likes of John Terry and Gary Cahill hang up their boots.
LB: Luke Shaw (Southampton)The young Left Back from Southampton has made all the right noises on his way up the English ladder. He’s beginning to cement his place in the Southampton side and will look to do the same with England in the future. He is known for his quick dribbling and pace. He delivers precise crosses but lacks in ball retention. He must look to improve in areas like one-on-one defending if he wants to become a Southampton and English main stay.
CM: (c) Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)He’s been around for quite a while and has made a huge impact on the footballing world since the time he was in his late teens. He finished off a wonderful team goal for Arsenal this season which showcased his class and talent. To be talented is one thing; to utilize it is another altogether. He is brilliant with through balls and is good taker of set pieces as well. He must improve his discipline and his aerial ability if he wants to become the focal point of England’s midfield in the future.
RM: Andros Townsend (Tottenham Hotspur)This kid has burst on to the scene this season and has shown great attacking capability with an 85% passing success rate and a clinical goal against Aston Villa which resulted in a man of the match award. He seems to be in impeccable form and you’ll definitely see him amongst the goals if he carries on like this.
LM: Ross Barkley (Everton)The young Everton starlet is currently one of the best teenagers in International football. He has shown great skill in his brief time in the top flight. He scored a goal on the opening day against Norwich and hasn’t looked back since. He is a brilliant Dribbler and is known for his ability to find the net from outside the box. If he is to make it to England’s national side then he will have to improve on his defensive contributions.
RW: WilfriedZaha (Manchester United)He might be a little overconfident and may possess a little too much attitude but he is a deadly winger. His style of play is very absorbing and eye catching. He will be hoping to kick start his Manchester United season, sooner rather than later. He was a key part in Crystal Palace’s arrival in the top flight and will look to make his way into the English XI.
LW: Raheem Sterling (Liverpool)This versatile kid from Liverpool plays in several positions and can play on either side of the field. He has raw pace and at 18 is a delight to watch. He is brilliant in one on one situations and has a good temperament for dribbling. Ball retention and aerial battles are a cause for concern for him. England are lucky to have him and you can be rest assured that he will play for England one day.
CF: Danny Welbeck (Manchester United)Danny Welbeck is yet to set the stage on fire. He scored two goals in his first game this season but has been off colour ever since. He hasn’t reached full potential and will hope that he can find form soon enough. David Moyes has persisted with him and given him several opportunities. If Danny finds his gears, he could become a game changer for United & England.
Substitutes
Callum Burton (GK), Nathaniel Chalobalah (Defence), James Ward Prowse, Nick Powell (Midfield), Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain, Harry Kane (Forwards/Wingers)
Only time will tell if these players live up to the billing.
