England's best 11 for Euro 2016

Here it is! My England starting line up. Looking ahead to this summer’s European Championship’s in France. It has been tough to decide between certain individuals but I am quite confident I have selected the best eleven available at this moment in time.

Joe Hart

The City keeper has been a constant figure in the England line up since being recognised as first choice back in 2010. Hart has some stiff competition for his place in the line up though, in the form of Jack Butland and Fraser Forster. But the experience of Joe gives him the edge and could make a huge difference when it comes to the Euro’s. He has kept 11 Premier League clean sheets this season and I am positive he will carry that through into the summer.

Nathaniel Clyne

Although the full back hasn’t made as much of an impact on the offensive end as he did for Southampton last season since signing for Liverpool, he has still played a crucial part defensively. His pace allows him to get back into position very quickly and enables him to cover fellow defender’s if need be. Clyne operates very well as a wing back and I would like to see him pushing on at every opportunity.

John Stones

The Everton man is without doubt the most highly regarded young centre back in English Football. It is of great importance to give him as much International experience as possible in order for him to continue his development, and the Euro’s is the perfect chance for that. The 21 year old is very composed on the ball and is keen to play out of defence, rather than lumping the ball forward and losing possession. Although Stones has only made 4 starts for the national side, I for one would back him to do a very good job if called upon.

Chris Smalling

I must admit that prior to this season I haven’t been Smalling’s biggest fan. However, after several solid performances in club football this campaign, I believe the defender has more than merited his place in the side. The former non-leaguer should be looking to take charge of the England back line, just as he has done throughout the past year for Manchester United. Smalling boasts an impressive 20 clean sheets in all competitions when he’s figured this season. Let’s hope he can take that into the Championship’s with him.

Ryan Bertrand

The Saints defender has been a constant performer on the south coast over the last couple of seasons. He is reliable defensively, as well as being one of the most attacking left backs in the Premier League. Bertrand should be looking to overlap the left winger, providing width and creating space for team mates. It is worth noting that should Bertrand’s performances drop, Danny Rose, Ryan Cresswell and Kieran Gibbs will all be waiting in the wings to take his place.

Mark Noble

The Hammer’s captain is the best man to fill that defensive midfield gap. The uncapped Noble has so far had a fantastic season, leading his team into a push for a Champion’s League place. Mark can pass, tackle and score goals. He plays with his heart on his sleeve. A player in his form, with his commitment, should not be overlooked. Noble is happy to fill into full back positions when required to do so, which will give a bit more offensive freedom to Clyne and Bertrand. Not to mention he is a very good penalty taker (scored 23 of 26), should it once again come down to penalties for England.

Dele Alli

In my eyes Alli’s inclusion in the starting line up is a necessity after a string of impressive performances in his first Premier League season. His broad range of ability could be paramount in how the national team plays. Alli would take up a role slightly to the right of midfield, but with his skill and athleticism I am sure this wouldn’t hinder him. The confidence and composure he has on the ball will no doubt be a very useful asset to the side.

Ross Barkley

This is another young man who has really come to the fore this season after finding a bit of consistency. Barkley is the man you want to be picking up the ball and driving the team forward, creating chances and taking risks. He is more than competent filling in on the defensive end when needed, as this is an area he has improved upon. If Ross can form some kind of partnership with Dele Alli then this could be highly fruitful for the National side going forward.

Raheem Sterling

The pacey winger may not have had as much of an impact as he had hoped for in a Man City shirt this season, but he still remains England’s best option on the left flank. Raheem is at his most dangerous when he has the ball at his feet, driving at full backs. If he could do this more consistently for the national team it would be profoundly beneficial. Sterling impressed two years ago at the World Cup in Brazil, hopefully that experience has seen him well ahead of France.

Wayne Rooney

Although Rooney is currently sidelined with a knee injury he is expected to return in time for the tournament. If fit there is no way the England and Manchester United skipper can be disregarded for the starting line up. He may have had an up and down season with just 7 league goals to his name, but his record in the national team speaks for itself. Wayne recently surpassed Sir Bobby Charlton’s scoring record and has since moved onto 51 goals for his country. His best position is behind the striker, linking up with the midfield and creating opportunities.

Harry Kane

The Spurs front man has so far had another excellent campaign, scoring goals at will. He managed to find the net 3 times, alongside 2 assists in his 5 European Qualifier matches. Kane can play either as a target man or on the shoulder, running in behind. This gives opposing defenders trouble when marking him. Harry has some fierce competition when it comes to leading England’s forward line, but if he keeps up his form he shouldn’t have any problems about being included.

Roy’s Dilemma:

If fit and in form a case can be made for the likes of Daniel Sturridge and Jack Wilshere to force their way into the line up. Sturridge has recently returned to the Liverpool side, but he needs to have a run of games to prove his fitness. Jack is an awkward one, because in my opinion he is certainly one of the best English midfielder’s around. But again, injuries are a real concern. Although, the Arsenal star will hopefully be back in action soon, pushing for a place in Roy Hodgson’s squad.

Some people may be curious as to why I haven’t included the Premier League’s record holder for goals in consecutive games, that being Jamie Vardy. But there is a method in the madness. Vardy could provide a crucial role off the bench, with his pace and tireless exuberance. Imagine the Leicester forward coming off the bench with twenty minutes ago, against a tiring Wales defence in the group stage. Maybe it is wrong not to start Vardy, but I strongly maintain this is where he could be most profitable.

Brief Prediction:

I am quietly confident we could go quite far in a major tournament for the first time in the last twenty years, as in my opinion the squad is underrated. I am not saying by any means that the Three Lion’s could bring the trophy home. I do believe the semi finals is a realistic target though. This young team may have little experience at the big stage, but that could be a positive thing, they may head into the Championship’s with very little fear. So roll on June!