England News

• Nickname:Three Lions
• Founded: 1872
• Manager:Roy Hodgson

• Ground:Wembley Stadium
• Capacity:90,000

AJ impresses McClaren

01 Oct 2006 - 14:28:57

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Everton striker Andrew Johnson is challenging for a starting spot for England, according to national team boss Steve McClaren.

The 25-year-old has begun his Toffees career in superb style, netting six goals in seven games since his £8.6million switch from Crystal Palace to make himself a serious contender for the Euro 2008 qualifiers against FYR Macedonia and Croatia.

McClaren commented: "When you look at the strikers, Jermain Defoe has come in and done very well when he's played with Peter Crouch.

"But for me Andrew Johnson is the one who is really coming through. He's got his head at Everton.

"He's blossoming. He's started the season so well.

"I've seen him two or three times and he's really impressed me with his work ethic and the way he works for the team.

"He's really pushing the strikers very hard. He deserves his place in the squad and he's knocking on the door to get in the team."

Johnson has won four caps for England to date, with his only start coming in a 2-1 friendly win against the USA in May 2005.