Uncapped Michail Antonio gets a well-deserved chance as he is named in Sam Allardyce’s first ever England squad.
The Hammers’ explosive winger has started the season well, scoring two goals in the opening three Premier League games. Both were identical headers at the back post against Bournemouth and title favourites Manchester City.
Antonio carried on his form from last season where he scored eight goals following his move from Championship side Nottingham Forest for an undisclosed fee of £7million.
Big Sam spoke highly of the winger, describing him as a “terrific athlete” and a “really good crosser”. He also added how Michail Antonio is a “goalscorer from wide positions” which suggests that Allardyce will play the West Ham man on the wing instead of his secondary position of right-back. There is no doubt that Antonio will inject pace, directness and power out wide.
In the summer of 2016, 26-year-old Antonio didn’t make the England Euro squad under Roy Hodgson, so he will be eager to show his class on the international stage.
Other players added to the squad include the likes of Luke Shaw, Phil Jagielka,Theo Walcott and Danny Drinkwater who were all absent from the Euros due to differing reasons.
There is no doubt that Danny Drinkwater will add a more direct approach and his chemistry with Jamie Vardy is arguably better than any other teammates in the squad.
Sam Allardyce positively added: “After such a bad injury, it’s great to see him back,” referring to Luke Shaw.
In contrast, one notable absentee is Ross Barkley, who has impressed so far with two goals in four games. The Everton youngster didn’t make a single appearance in England’s woeful Euro 2016 tournament. In addition, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was also left out.
Much hysteria has been caused over the decision to leave Marcus Rashford in the U21 squad. The 18-year-old Mancunian scored the winning goal as Manchester United triumphed over Hull City on Saturday. Although United manager Jose Mourinho says he’d rather have Rashford start for the youth side then sit on the bench. He also scored three minutes into his first England cap against Australia – becoming the youngest ever player to score on their England debut.
Prior to the squad selection, there was much doubt over keeper Joe Hart who is heavily linked with a move away from Manchester City – with Pep Guardiola opting for Claudio Bravo. This is also combined with his disappointing display in Euro 2016.
However, the highly spirited keeper has maintained his position in the squad and will be keen to prove the doubters and more importantly, Guardiola wrong.
The captain has not been selected as of yet, however, Wayne Rooney looks to be the most experienced and is favourite to stay as captain. This would be wise to ensure the squad does not become unsettled in any way.
Allardyce will hold a press conference on Monday where he will comment on his choices.
England will kick off their reign under Sam Allardyce in their World Cup qualifier against Slovakia this Sunday – with strong possibilities of a 4-3-3 formation due to big Sam’s love for the formation in recent years.
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