England coach also insists he has faith in Walcott
Last Updated: June 16, 2012 11:45am
Roy Hodgson: England coach happy to have a selection problem ahead of the game against Ukraine
Sky Bet
Roy Hodgson is happy to have a selection dilemma on his hands ahead of England's final group game against Ukraine after also insisting he has always had faith in Theo Walcott.
England face co-hosts Ukraine on Tuesday knowing that a point will secure qualification for the quarter-finals following Friday's thrilling 3-2 win over Sweden.
Wayne Rooney will be available in Donetsk after missing the opening two Group D fixtures through suspension and Hodgson has admitted that 'all hell will break loose' if he leaves the Manchester Unitedstriker out of his starting line-up.
will be available in Donetsk after missing the opening two Group D fixtures through suspension and Hodgson has admitted that 'all hell will break loose' if he leaves the Manchester Unitedstriker out of his starting line-up.
However, after Andy Carroll and Danny Welbeck both scored against the Swedes, Hodgson is pleased to have such competition for places up front.
both scored against the Swedes, Hodgson is pleased to have such competition for places up front.Special player
"I welcome those kind of selection problems," said Hodgson. "I was really pleased with the performance of the front players.
"But Wayne Rooney is a special player and, frankly, it will be hard frankly to leave him out.
"I'm afraid you expect him to get back into the team when the suspension is served."
Hodgson also praised the impact of Walcott after the Arsenal winger came off the bench to equalise against Sweden within three minutes of his introduction before creating the winner for Welbeck.
after the Arsenal winger came off the bench to equalise against Sweden within three minutes of his introduction before creating the winner for Welbeck.
Walcott has yet to start any of Hodgson's four matches in charge, but the England coach is full of praise for his contribution.
"Of course I believe in him," said Hodgson. "He's a good player with good qualities. That's why I selected him in my 23.
"I have only worked with these guys for a month and am still learning what they're really good at, and what areas we can find improvement. But I was delighted with his performance."
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