Euro 2012: Picking England's Starting 11

Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images

Soon Roy Hodgson will select the England squad he wants to take to Euro 2012. So, it will be interesting to see which players he wants to select for the first game. I suspect he will not put out many surprises and will select some tried and tested names. However, he does have to have one eye on the future.

And think about the players that might be taking over from some of our current experienced names. Wayne Rooney will be suspended for the first two games, so I suggest England move back to a 4-4-2 system for those games. 

Joe Hart (Goalkeeper)

Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

England currently has a lack of quality goalkeepers, so the decision to pick Joe Hart will be an easy one. The Manchester City keeper has had another excellent season, and he will be on a high after winning the Premier League title. He has certainly played his part with a string of excellent saves.

Kyle Walker (Right-Back)

Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

Kyle Walker seemed to pick up some kind on knock in the team's 2-0 win against Fulham. But I expect Walker to be fit for Euro 2012. The full-back has had a superb season and deserves to be picked for England as first choice in his position.

Leighton Baines (Left-Back)

Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

I know a lot of people would expect to see Ashley Cole in this position. But I personally believe Leighton Baines to be England's best left-back. He perhaps doesn't get the credit he deserves, but I would urge Hodgson to give him the opportunity from the start of Euro 2012. 

Joleon Lescott (Central Defender)

Alex Livesey/Getty Images

I know that Lescott made a mistake that led to a QPR goal during Man City's thrilling 3-2 win. However, it is a long, hard season and mistakes do happen. Lescott has had a superb season at the heart of City's defense and has earned his place on the team.

John Terry (Central Defender)

Ian Walton/Getty Images

There may be some that don't want John Terry at Euro 2012, but he has had another fine season for Chelsea. And Hodgson will see Terry's experience very important to England's chances. He also proved in the 2-1 win against Blackburn that he carries a significant goal threat. 

Theo Walcott (Right Wing)

Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

We all know what the Arsenal winger brings to the team. Walcott will be a powerful weapon for Hodgson to utilize at Euro 2012. His pace will surely scare European defenses and if he can get the delivery right, he could be one to watch.

Theo's sub role in Arsenal's final day 3-2 win at West Brom shows that he is fit and ready to be selected.

Ashley Young (Left Wing)

Michael Regan/Getty Images

Ashley Young started off this season in superb fashion; it looked like a fine bit of summer business by Sir Alex Ferguson. I think it is fair to say that he has not finished the season as strongly. But he is an exceptional player with the ability to provide goals and assists.

Scott Parker (Central Midfield)

Michael Steele/Getty Images

There is a slight doubt on the fitness of the Spurs midfielder, but if he is passed fit, then I'm sure he will be seen as the No. 1 choice in this position. Especially after recently captaining England.

If he isn't fit for the squad, then I would expect Hodgson would call on the experience of Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry.

Frank Lampard (Central Midfielder)

Ian Walton/Getty Images

Frank Lampard has had his share of injury problems this season. But if he is passed fit, I'm sure he will be in the squad. Hodgson will also see Lampard's experience as important to the team. I feel his chances of being in the team would be improved by using the 4-4-2 system.

The fact is, goal-scoring midfielders are very important and can make a big difference, so expect Lampard to be heavily involved in England's Euro 2012 campaign.

Jermain Defoe (Striker)

Clive Rose/Getty Images

Jermain Defoe has had another decent season at Tottenham Hotspur scoring 17 goals in all competitions. His previously strong record of scoring for his club and country makes Defoe a certain to be included in England's final 23-man squad. 

Daniel Sturridge (Striker)

Ian Walton/Getty Images

Daniel Sturridge has been one of the brightest points of Chelsea's season. His 13 goals this season have played a big part. It would be interesting to see if Defoe and Sturrdige could work as a partnership, but England will need to find some sort of solution while Rooney is out.

 

Follow James on Twitter and Facebook.