After Jermaine scored a wonder goal to settle Sunderland’s clash with local rivals Newcastle United the possibility has been raised that he could return to the England set up.
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With that in mind here are four players who will be looking to return to Roy Hodgson’s squad after being left out of at least the last few…
5) Micah Richards, Fiorentina (on loan from Manchester City)
Still only 26-years-old, the defender has the time to engineer a recall. Although his loan move to Serie A hasn’t had as much game time as he would have perhaps liked, with his contract at parent club City ending in the summer his next team could be where the right-back reminds Hodgson how good he is.
4) Jermaine Defoe, Sunderland
Not many can better the 32-year-old’s stunning volley on the weekend, and he has always been a reliable pair of hands at international level. However, the Three Lions currently have an abundance of attacking talent, and Defoe could find it difficult to get in ahead of the like of Wayne Rooney, Harry Kane, Daniel Sturridge, and Danny Welbeck.
3) Gareth Barry, Everton
Not in the midst of his best season with the Toffees, but with defensive midfield a problem position for Hodgson the former Manchester City man can’t be far from his mind. With the ability to start attacks as well as defend stoutly when in form, any good performances could see the 34-year-old’s name being touted.
2) Jonjo Shelvey, Swansea City
It has never been doubted that the midfielder has the ability to play for his country, but his application has sometimes been seen as below par. However, a solid season with the Swans, and the ability to play in defensive midfield will have the England staff thinking about the ex-Liverpool star. At 23-years-old he also has plenty of time to make his case for a recall.
1) Ashley Young, Manchester United
It wasn’t that long ago that the winger was labelled as a diver and not good enough for the Red Devils’ first team squad. However, this season has seen a renaissance from the still only 29-years-old ace. He is even keeping club record signing Angel Di Maria out of the team at the moment! Surely he could get a go in the friendly against Ireland in the summer?