Former England interim manager Peter Taylor has backed the decision to take Southampton's promising young left-back Luke Shaw to the World Cup in Brazil ahead of the far more experienced Ashley Cole.
England boss Roy Hodgson announced his squad on Monday afternoon and included young players such as Shaw and Ross Barkley, along with experienced internationals like Frank Lampard - but there were no places in the 23-man squad for Michael Carrick or Cole.
The Chelsea defender announced his international retirement on Sunday evening having missed out on the squad, with Shaw's inclusion alongside Everton's Leighton Baines as the two England left-backs.
Taylor, who led England between the permanent reigns of Kevin Keegan and Sven-Goran Eriksson, believes Shaw will be included mainly to garner experience of a tournament before establishing himself as first-choice.
"I think it is a great decision," he told Sky Sports News.
"It is obvious that Roy is thinking of Baines being number one and he will take Shaw with him because he might not be needed but it will be a good experience and get him ready for the Euros.
"I know that is a little bit of a gamble but it is obvious Baines is number one so it is a good decision for a very good young player."
Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown, who collected 42 England caps during his career, reckons the inclusion of Gunners' pair Jack Wilshere and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is a risk given their lack of fitness in recent months.
"Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been out injured for a good deal of time," Keown told BBC Radio 5 Live. "That's probably a gamble, Jack Wilshere as well. I was a little bit surprised Roy Hodgson didn't go with Ashley Cole for what is a major tournament."
Source: PA
