World Cup: Hodgson leaves England door open for youngsters

World Cup: Hodgson leaves England door open for youngsters
England manager Roy Hodgson says the young players can still force their way into his squad for next summer's World Cup finals in Brazil. The possible candidates include Everton's Ross Barkley and West Ham's Ravel Morrison, both aged 20. "These two must realise we do have great faith in them and enormous admiration for their talent," Hodgson said. But the boss also warned they will have to perform consistently well to be selected. Midfielder Barkley made his England debut in the 4-0 World Cup qualifying win over Moldova in September. Former Manchester United midfielder Morrison, who has been capped from Under-16 to Under-21 level, has been praised for his performances this season. Hodgson said: "There is no problem with a lack of experience. He has the quality, but he's going to find there is stiff competition from others, including Ross Barkley. Ravel has just broken into the Under-21 side, whereas Ross has been in the Under-20 and Under-21 sides over a period of time. We think they will be exceptional players, but they have got to perform week-in and week-out, and make sure they are on that team sheet. If they can keep more experienced players out of the team then, come May, their names will be in serious discussion." Hodgson has also given hope to other young players that could be in contention for a spot in his World Cup team. Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling, aged 19, made his full England debut in a 4-2 defeat by Sweden in 2012, a match in which Manchester United's 21-year-old forward Wilfried Zaha also made his debut. "You cannot ignore Raheem Sterling, who I saw playing brilliantly for Liverpool the other day, and winger Nathan Redmond of Norwich," said Hodgson. "And you cannot forget Wilfried Zaha, who a few months ago was on everyone's lips. But you've got to be careful with names of young players who suddenly burst on the scene. This time last year Wilfried was suggested as a shoe-in for the squad, but he's been usurped by Ravel Morrison and Ross Barkley, and, who knows, their places might be usurped." You can bet on who will make England's World Cup squad at Bet365, here are the odds for some of the youngsters: Ross Barkley - 8/13 Ravel Morrison - 6/1 Raheem Sterling - 5/1 Nathan Redmond - 25/1 Wilfried Zaha - 16/1
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