Euro Qualifiers: England Lineup to Take on Wales Signals Change of Guard

After some exciting results at the weekend in a number of International friendlies, it seems that changes are being made to a number of squads in preparation for the long haul.

Many coaches are looking far beyond the next round of Confederation competitions and ahead to the 2014 World Cup and beyond.

One of those teams is England.

The Three Lions have become known as one of those teams with immense talent and ability, but who seem to fail almost every time on the big stage.

With an excellent recent victory over Bulgaria, the English now set their eyes on Wales as they look to continue and improve on their previous performance.

Picking and choosing players to start seems to be one of the toughest choices with the quality available.

Possible Starting Lineup

Joe Hart (MC)

Chris Smalling (MU)

Gary Cahill (BW)

John Terry (Che)

Ashley Cole (Che)

Gareth Barry (MC)

Scott Parker (TH)

Stewart Downing (Liv)

Ashley Young (MU)

Jermain Defoe (TH)

Wayne Rooney (MU)

There has been some discussion as to whether Frank Lampard should get a start against the Welsh. Many are asking why, after Scott Parker did such a fine job against Bulgaria.

There's also the chance that Ashley Young could play behind Wayne Rooney again. However, since they will be playing at home, coach Fabio Capello could choose to be a little more attacking and play two out-an-out strikers.

Generally, Wayne will still fall slightly deep at times, which will allow the wingers to push forward.

Another possible starter in the middle could be the young Manchester United star, Tom Cleverly.

At the back, Capello will want to keep things the same, as it seems the back four communicated well enough during the last game. This trend could continue, with many questioning Rio Ferdinand's return to the team as so much young and promising talent comes through.

A question that always seems to arise is whether Theo Walcott should start or if he could have more impact coming off the bench. In the past, both theories have worked out.

He has pace and energy but so do many of the other young English players. The difference is, Downing brings along more assurances defensively.

While winning away to Bulgaria was an important marker for Capello and his England side, he must follow that by beating Wales at home by a convincing scoreline if he wants to prove that he has the ability to bring this side of highly-talented footballers together.