Steve McClaren has called up Manchester City 18-year-old Micah Richards to his England squad, and has praised the England U21 system. He also named Gabriel Agbonlahor of Aston Villa, Leighton Baines of Wigan, and of course, Theo Walcott (Arsenal) as potential England call-ups. Let’s open up the discussion on these players, and others we think may have a future for England.
Micah Richards may well be the long-term replacement for Gary Neville, and if he stays on the squad for a while, he will have a chance to learn from the veteran. He is also a potential center back, but for that role he would have to wait longer. Obviously he is young, but he is solid in defense, scores occasionally, and is excellent with his head.
I am a huge fan of Gabriel Abonlahor. This guy is FAST. Not only that, but he is fast WITH the ball, and he can shoot. He is a perfect counter-attack weapon. Teamed up with the likes of Lennon and Rooney, England could have a very fast and very talented attacking line.
Baines plays left back for Wigan, and may have longer to wait simply for that reason. With Ashley Cole and the more-than-adequate Wayne Bridge behind him, it could be tough to break into the England squad, however a left back that can score goals is always popular.
I have also been impressed with Ashley Young of Watford. He has been playing well this season, bearing some of the burden left by Marlon King’s injury. He has 3 goals, including a nice free-kick against Tottenham.
So what do you think of these players? What other promising young stars might we see on the England squad in the future?
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