Pick your England starting XI - Defenders

09 June 2010 14:03

Yesterday you voted for Joe Hart to start in goal for England against the USA, but who do YOU think should start in front of him?

Take a look at Fabio Capello's defensive options for the World Cup and then vote at our Facebook hub to have your say. Click here to join.

- World Cup mini-site

Full-backs

Jamie Carragher

After retiring from international football two years ago, Carragher returned for the World Cup after being convinced by Fabio Capello.

Primarily a central defender, the Liverpool man is seen by most fans as a back-up right-back for Glen Johnson.

Ashley Cole

Despite being one of the most unpopular players in the entire country, Cole is still widely admired as a world class left back.

Having recovered well from a broken ankle sustained in February, he looks a certainty to start on Saturday evening.

Glen Johnson

Great going forward, not so good at the back - Glen Johnson has been both heavily praised and criticised for his recent England performances.

If he stays strong defensively then his attacking threat could be a major weapon in South Africa.

Stephen Warnock

One of the surprise picks of Fabio's squad, Warnock has featured just once for his country - a substitute appearance against Trinidad and Tobago in 2008.

Although inexperienced at international level, the former Liverpool man has been in excellent form since joining Aston Villa last summer.

- England News

Central defenders

Michael Dawson

Arguably the most in-form central defender over the last Premier League campaign, Dawson originally missed out on World Cup selection but was drafted in to replace the injured Rio Ferdinand.

Uncapped at international level, the former Nottingham Forest defender lacks the experience of many of his team-mates.

John Terry

Generally seen as the heart of the defence for both club and country, Terry goes into the World Cup on the back of an excellent season with Chelsea which saw them lift the league and cup double.

Stripped of the captaincy earlier this year following allegations about his private life, the central defender will need to be at the top of his game with Rio Ferdinand out injured.

Ledley King

Despite having a chronic knee injury which restricts both his training and playing time, King had an outstanding season for Tottenham - leading them to fourth place and Champions League football.

The bookies favourite to partner Terry in defence, Ledley will need to prove his fitness if England are to progress in the tournament.

Matthew Upson

Often viewed as Capello's third-choice central defender, Upson's poor season with West Ham has seen him drop down the pecking order in recent games.

But with 19 caps to his name, the former Arsenal man could provide a more experienced option if necessary.

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Source: DSG