A dismal showing at the 2010 World Cup had many fans despairing for the future of the English national team, but the emergence of a crop of talented youngsters has given them renewed cause for optimism. Here are some of the young English players that are giving experienced internationals such as John Terry and Frank Lampard reason to fear for their places. For the latest sporting news and Free Fantasy Football, visit skysports.com.
Goalkeeper – Joe Hart
England has lacked a reliable shot stopper ever since David Seaman hung up his gloves, but it would appear that the wait is finally over. A successful loan spell at Birmingham gave the Man City keeper a chance to force his way into the first team for club and country, and he has never looked back.
Centre Back – Phil Jones
The size of the transfer fee paid by Man Utd for the services of young Bolton defender Phil Jones raised a few eyebrows at the time, but any doubts have been dispelled by a string of assured performances that have seen him hailed as a future England captain.
Full Back – Kyle Walker
The young Tottenham full back has made great strides in the 2011-12 season, impressing for Spurs in the Premier League and for Capello’s England in their preparations for the European Championships.
Central Midfield – Tom Cleverley
A product of Man Utd’s youth academy, cultured midfielder Cleverley made a huge impact on United’s pre-season tour of 2011, stepping up to the plate in the wake of Paul Scholes’ retirement. Injuries have prevented him from cementing his place in the first team, but once he is fully fit, he will be able to show Ferguson, and Capello, what he is really capable of.
Forward – Daniel Sturridge
The former Man City youngster was signed up by Chelsea in 2009, and subsequently sent out on loan to Bolton Wanderers in order to give him some Premier League experience. He was to prove a smash hit at the Trotters, scoring 8 goals in 12 appearances, and this caught the eye of incoming Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas, who has made him an integral part of the first team squad in 2011. His fine domestic form has led to a call up to Capello’s first team, and it is expected that he will make the trip to Poland and Ukraine in 2012.