Football: England recall Wilshere for friendly

England coach Roy Hodgson recalls fit-again midfielder Jack Wilshere to his squad for friendly away to Sweden.

LONDON: England coach Roy Hodgson recalled fit-again midfielder Jack Wilshere to his squad for next week’s friendly away to Sweden and also awarded a first call-up to Everton’s Leon Osman.

Steven Gerrard is in line to win his 100th cap in Stockholm on November 14, while goal-keeper Fraser Forster retains his place in the squad after starring in Celtic’s shock 2-1 Champions League win over Barcelona on Wednesday.

Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole was overlooked due to injury and there was no place either for Manchester United defender Chris Smalling, who made his comeback from injury in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Liverpool midfield duo Jonjo Shelvey, 20, and Raheem Sterling, 17, were both retained by former Reds boss Hodgson.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 9^th, 2012.