Hodgson calls on youth

Recently appointed England football manager, Roy Hodgson, on Wednesday named John Ruddy and Roy Carroll in his youthful 23 man squad for the European championship later this month.
Hodgson, who was conducting his first squad announcement since replacing Fabio Capello last month, announced a squad filled with youthful stars. His focus yielding the inclusion of young stars such as Phil Jones, Alex Oxlade- Chamberlaine, Danny Welbeck and Theo Walcott.
The Surprise inclusion of Andy Carroll and 25 year old Norwich third choice goal keeper, John Ruddy were among the talking points of the announcement. Carroll, who has largely been disappointing since his 35 million pound move to Liverpool, was thrilled with the prospect of again playing in an England shirt. While Ruddy called playing for England" a real honour."
"Playing for my country has been a dream of mine, of course it has. I'm under no illusions as to the quality of Joe Hart and Rob Green and that I will be number three keeper. But I'm really looking forward to training with them and getting down to some hard work." Said Ruddy.
A surprise omission from the squad was Michael Carrick who has been proving his doubters wrong with some timeless performances for Manchester United of late. His disappointment was shared by former Hardman turned Pundit, Robbie Savage, who tweeted in jest “Gutted… Not even on the standby list #hodgsonout.”
When asked about another surprise omission, Rio Ferdinand, Roy Hodgson claimed the decision was one based less on injuries or hostility with John Terry and more to do with the fact that he has only played one game in one year for the National team. "He was very gracious (about the decision). He was obviously disappointed. He wished me and the team good luck in the tournament" Hodgson said of Ferdinand.

Steven Gerrard was named Captain of the squad.
EURO 2012 England squad:
Goalkeepers - Joe Hart, Robert Green, John Ruddy.
Defenders - Leighton Baines, Gary Cahill, Ashley Cole, Glen Johnson, Phil
Jones, Joleon Lescott, John Terry.
Midfielders - Gareth Barry, Stewart Downing, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard,
James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Scott Parker, Theo Walcott, Ashley
Young.
Strikers - Andy Carroll, Jermain Defoe, Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck.
Standby - Jack Butland, Phil Jagielka, Jordan Henderson, Adam Johnson, Daniel
Sturridge
In : Football