Huddlestone gets chance to impress Capello
Tom Huddlestone was handed his first England start as the Tottenham midfielder entered the World Cup last-chance saloon in Graz this afternoon.
Huddlestone is one of the men expected to be culled by Fabio Capello when he announces his 23-man squad on Tuesday but in handing him a starting berth against Japan, the England coach was offering a clear opportunity to impress.
The same could also be said of Darren Bent, who appeared to have blown his chance in the defeat to Brazil in Qatar last November.
Capello had already flagged up an appearance for Aaron Lennon, who was handed a left-wing berth after spending plenty of time there in training this week, with Theo Walcott on the other flank.
Three Chelsea players – Ashley Cole, John Terry and Frank Lampard – were also recalled, while goalkeeper David James was handed his first start since the qualifying win over the Ukraine at Wembley on April 1 last year.
Rio Ferdinand’s presence in central defence meant he was united with Terry for the first time since the captaincy passed between the pair, while Glen Johnson occupied the right-back berth.
Today’s starting line-up appeared to signal the end of a World Cup dream for Michael Dawson and Scott Parker, neither of whom have played a game for Capello, whilst Stephen Warnock can hardly be confident of selection either.
England team to face Japan: David James, Glen Johnson, Ashley Cole, Tom Huddlestone, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry, Theo Walcott, Frank Lampard, Darren Bent, Wayne Rooney, Aaron Lennon.
