Dawson Deserves England Chance

Michael Dawson is arguably the most in-form central defender in the country and deserves a chance at this summer's World Cup.

The North Yorkshire born centre-back has had a sensational season for Tottenham after injuries to Jonathan Woodgate and Ledley King handed him a chance in Harry Redknapp's first team.

Spurs have only conceded 34 goals in the Premier League and Dawson has been a major player for the top-four hopefuls.

Glenn Hoddle has recommended Dawson to Fabio Capello and if the England coach is as good as his word and picks the players in form then the Spurs defender must be selected. He would certainly help the side justify their FIFA World Cup odds.

John Terry and Rio Ferdinand look like being Capello's first choice pairing, but form and injuries have been a worry for even those two in the last few months. Dawson would be an ideal replacement.

Manchester City and Argentina forward Carlos Tevez recently said Dawson was the best English defender he had come up against because of his strength. The former Nottingham Forest man is also a natural tackler and powerful in the air.

Dawson has the pace to play at the top level, but it is his passing that sets him aside from the rest. His short passing and long-range play has been exceptional this season and would not be out of place alongside the greats in South Africa.

The 26-year-old has yet to be capped at senior level, but Capello might decide to give Dawson a run-out against Mexico at Wembley before he decides in May on his provisional squad for the finals.

Some pundits will no doubt make England World cup tips again this time around, and Dawson could be the answer to some important defensive questions.