England: 5 Reasons Three Lions Can Win The World Cup

4. Youthful Exuberance

The number of young English players currently performing for their respective clubs has been staggering. Let alone the ones coming to the national side and showcasing exactly what led to their call-up. Winger Andros Townsend and central midfielder Ross Barkley have been two players making a big impression on England manager Roy Hodgson and the masses of supporters. So much so people are already naming the pair in their predicted 23-man squad to take to Brazil. Hodgson threw Townsend and Barkley into games where they didn't have time to think about how large the scale was, so they performed admirably when called upon without being overawed by the occasion. They showed no fear for their opponent, and instead gave the opposition more to worry about. When looking at the England side of late, there has been a depleted amount of veteran players, most notably in the wide positions. Hodgson has opted for the experience to be within the spine of the side, and has allowed the young stars to be given a chance playing on the wings. There are a number of young players who have seemingly already forced their way into the England first-team for the foreseeable future - Danny Welbeck, Daniel Sturridge, and Jack Wilshere to name a few. It highlights how Roy Hodgson has no bias. If he deems a player good enough, he'll give them a chance to prove their worth regardless of age.
Contributor
Contributor

Crippy Cooke, 23, is a freelance Football Writer contributing to What Culture. He's had work featured on Zoo, MSN, London 24, The Telegraph, The Huffington Post, and was recently named Writer of the Year on FTBpro - while also a nominee for Best Male Blog in the Football Blogging Awards.