Roy Hodgson is desperate to give arguably England’s two best players some game time…
Despite struggling with pre-season fitness problems, both Wayne Rooney and Jack Wilshere will get significant game time in the England verses Scotland friendly, reports the Sunday Mirror.
The friendly on Wednesday gives England boss Roy Hodgson one last chance to work closely with his squad before the crucial World Cup qualifying ties against Moldova and Ukraine coming in September.
Rooney’s pre-season has been dogged with hamstring and shoulder injuries, as well as a constant barrage of speculation surrounding his future at Manchester United. In what could be seen as a subtle dig to Old Trafford boss David Moyes, Rooney posted on his official Facebook page gratitude to Hodgson for showing faith in him.
“Can’t wait to join up with the England squad and hopefully play in a competitive match, they always are against Scotland. Big thanks to Roy Hodgson for selecting me and showing his faith and support, appreciate it.”
The 27-year-old striker is likely to start against Scotland now, and it will be interesting to see just how ‘unfit’ he really is.
Wilshere, Arsenal’s talented 21-year-old playmaker has only won 7 caps for England after spending months out on the sidelines during the early part of his career. He will be important to any chances England have of qualifying for, and doing well at Brazil 2014, and Hodgson is keen to get him as many minutes as possible. The midfielder is likely to play the second half on Wednesday.
Hodgson is aware that the fixture comes at an irritating point for Premier League managers, but has assured them he will look after their players accordingly.
“We realise that this fixture may not have come at a convenient time for the clubs and I am fully aware that they have important games coming up at the weekend,” he said.
“They know I will be sensible with their players.”
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