1. Carl Jenkinson
Finland and England were keen to fight for Jenkinson's services, with the 21 year old from Harlow having represented both countries at youth level. Jenkinson opted for the country of his birth and was rewarded with his senior debut alongside Zaha in the friendly against Sweden. Although he may seem a way down the pecking order, Jenkinson will see the coming 12 months as an opportunity to stake his claim for at least a place in the squad, if not a starting berth. Although Glen Johnson and Kyle Walker offer much going forward, there are often question marks over their defensive qualities. Jenkinson meanwhile has certainly proved to be a more than capable defender and turned in an excellent display in the Allianz Arena in the recent Champions League victory over Bayern Munich. He is still relatively new to the Premier League, having joined Arsenal from Charlton back in June 2011 and has since made 23 Premier League appearances. Arsene Wenger has been suitably impressed by his performances in an Arsenal shirt and recently rewarded him with a long term contract back in December as part of his vision for the future. It would be quite a rise for Jenkinson, but his performances in the league and in Europe have shown enough to suggest that he can handle the pressure on the International stage. Who do you think can make it through into the England squad ahead of the World Cup? Share your picks below.
Mark Longman
Contributor
I am an Evertonian originating from Yorkshire and living in Bedfordshire. I have always had an obsession with football and a passion for writing and I am keen to get started in the world of football journalism. I hope that my writing entertains you all and leaves you thirsty for more!
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