Kirkland called into England squad
Saturday, August 16, 2003
Article summary
Liverpool FC goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has been named in the England squad for the game against Croatia.
Article body
Lengthy absence
The uncapped 22-year-old has not played for Liverpool since suffering a serious knee injury in an FA Cup tie against Crystal Palace FC in January, and is likely to face a stiff battle with Jerzy Dudek to become first-choice goalkeeper at Anfield.
Rooney rested
Another promising young talent from Merseyside, Everton FC's 17-year-old striker Wayne Rooney, has been left out despite making his comeback from injury in his side's 2-1 defeat at Arsenal FC on the opening day of the Premiership season on Saturday.
Minor changes
Eriksson also omitted Gareth Southgate, Matthew Upson and Jermaine Jenas from his 24-man squad, although Newcastle United FC's Jonathon Woodgate is included alongside Chelsea FC new boy Joe Cole and Southampton FC striker James Beattie.
Three games to go
England are currently second in UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifying Group 7, two points behind leaders Turkey but with a game in hand. Eriksson's side next face F.Y.R. Macedonia away on 6 September before taking on Liechtenstein four days later and ending their campaign with a crucial trip to Turkey on 11 October.
England squad
James, Robinson, Kirkland, Mills, Ferdinand, Terry, Ashley Cole, Phil Neville, Bridge, Campbell, Woodgate, Beckham, Gerrard, Scholes, Sinclair, Hargreaves, Lampard, Joe Cole, Butt, Dyer, Murphy, Heskey, Owen, Beattie.
