The 23 man Euro Squad

Roy Hodgson's first major task since being given the England job was to pick his side for the upcoming European Championships in Poland/Ukraine. His picks have ultimately been solid, but there has been some controversy in some of his choices, leading to #HodgsonOut trending on twitter. Although this may seem largely to be a joke, his team has left out some notable absences, as well as picking some new, surprising faces. I will analyze the 23 man squad and their overall performance rating ahead of the fast approaching European Championships.

Goalkeepers:
Joe Hart and John Ruddy in training
Joe Hart - 9 (right)
One of the best Goalkeepers in the world and has had a tremendous club season.

Rob Green - 7
A worthy back up and has been solid this season, shame that his International career was wrecked after 'that' howler during the 2010 world cup.

John Ruddy - 5 (right)
Not the greatest of keepers, has now been replaced by rookie Jack Butland due to a broken finger.

Defenders
Ashley Cole - 9
Still in my opinion the best Left back in the world, but will have Leighton Baines chomping at the bit to start ahead of him.

Leighton Baines – 7
Has had a terrific season with Everton, but lack of international experience would be worrying.

John Terry - 8 (right)
Always puts his neck on the line for both club and country and I would expect no less in the forthcoming Championships.

Gary Cahill - 7
Cahill is expected to form a partnership with Terry for both club and country, he is a solid centre back and one who will be in the team for a number of years.

Former captain John Terry

Joleon Lescott – 7
Has improved leaps and bounds this season, and should be on the fringes of the first choice XI this summer.

Phil Jones - 7
A top prospect for the future, but would likely have to make do with a place on the bench this summer.

Glen Johnson – 7
He is regularly criticized but I think he is not as bad as made out to be. May not be as good as Richards and Walker, but still a good player nevertheless.

Midfielders
Stewart Downing – 4
Been well below par this year, contributing 0 assists and 0 goals for Liverpool in the Premier League this year. Very lucky to be in the squad.

Ashley Young - 7
Fully deserves his place with his pace and technique, but will be under scrutiny for his tendency to go down too easily.

Gareth Barry - 6
Will provide Hodgson with good holding midfield cover but will almost certainly play second fiddle to Parker.

Scott Parker - 8 (right)
Been tremendous for Tottenham all season long, but concerns about his fitness are worrying.

Steven Gerrard (C) - 7 (right)
Scott Parker and Steven Gerrard delbierate before the game
against Norway on Saturday
Recently installed as Captain and deservedly so. Leads by example but injuries have effected his contribution in recent years.

Frank Lampard - 7
Was terrific this season under Di Matteo, playing a key role in Chelsea's FA cup and Champions League triumphs. However, form in an England shirt is worrying.

James Milner – 5
Played 1 minute in the last 7 weeks for City, making him a surprise choice. Versatility and work rate makes him a good squad player.

Theo Walcott - 6
Lightning quick and would be a threat; providing he is on form. Had his moments this year and has just done enough to deserve a place in the 23.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - 7
No-one could've predicted his inclusion, but I think it's a positive one. The 18 year old has a bright future and will provide much needed threat on the wings.

Forwards
Liverpool striker Andy Carroll
Andy Carroll - 6 (right)
Has had a very indifferent season, having struggled to settle at Liverpool since his arrival in January 2011. Late season form and aerial threat provides a different option.

Jermaine Defoe - 6
I don't think he's a very good player at all, but his poaching ability and goal scoring record works in his favour.

Wayne Rooney - 8
One of four world class players in the 23 along with Cole, Gerrard and Hart. England will miss him dearly in the first 2 group games.

Danny Welbeck - 7
Has had a great season this year for United, forming a great partnership up front with Rooney, but does he have the International pedigree?

Standby:
Jack Butland - 5 Who is he?
Phil Jagielka - 7 Solid season for Everton.
Jordan Henderson - 5 Poor season for Liverpool.
Adam Johnson - 7 should’ve made team, unlucky to not get game time for City.
Daniel Sturridge - 6 Form petered out half way through season.


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