World Cup 2014: England’s Midfield Maybe Men

I know it’s hard to believe but the Football World Cup is only three months away, and it’s sure to be action packed with your favourite players. From watching the flair of Neymar to being amazed in how long Xavi and co can keep hold of the ball, this year’s World Cup promises to be one of the best yet. 

With the improvement of so many different international teams, England go into this competition without the ‘could be favourites to reach the final’ tag hung around their luggage. Most coaches will have a rough idea of their 23-man-squad and England’s Roy Hodgson will be no different.

The likes of captain Steven Gerrard, Joe Hart, Wayne Rooney, Gary Cahill and Phil Jagielka are almost certainties – injury permitted, but the competition of midfield places are fierce. We’ve produced a list of England’s maybe men that could find themselves on the way to Brazil.

Adam Lallana – The Southampton captain has impressed for club and country for a while now. His intelligence and confidence with the ball at his feet, awareness, flair and passing range could help England create more chances in the final third of pitch. He has shown he is capable.

Frank Lampard – With Lampard you know what you’ll get. A hard working experienced player who loves to get forward and put the ball in the back of the net, but is that enough to make this squad with so many different options?

Michael Carrick – Carrick is a player who likes to sit a little deeper than his midfield partner and retain possession. Despite the decline in form his club have suffered this season, his experience in big games and incisive passing could book his place.

Ross Barkley – The 20-year-old Everton midfielder has helped his club push for European football this year with vital goals. An attack minded player with the dribbling skills to break defensive lines and link up with the front men.

The likes of Tom Cleverley, Jordan Henderson and Gareth Barry will also hope for a spot in Hodgson’s 11, but only time will tell. Who do you think will travel to Brazil?