Source: Team_Talk
Bent and Huddlestone get England starts
Darren Bent and Tom Huddlestone will get the chance to win a place in England's World Cup squad after landing starts against Japan on Sunday.[LNB] Fabio Capello needs to cut seven players from his preliminary squad of 30 ahead of the tournament in South Africa.[LNB]Sunderland striker Bent did not feature in the 3-1 win over Mexico on Monday because of a hamstring injury.[LNB]Capello opted to start with Peter Crouch, who scored his 21st England goal, and bring on Jermain Defoe in the second half.[LNB]Bent scored 24 times in the Premier League last term, more than Defoe, Crouch and Emile Heskey. He has yet to score a senior international goal, though.[LNB]Tottenham midfielder Huddlestone was introduced from the bench against Mexico. And with doubts over the fitness of Manchester City's Gareth Barry, he is a possible alternative in the holding midfield role.[LNB]"I have seen Huddlestone in a lot of games," said Capello.[LNB]"This year he always played very well as a holding player and I am happy because he is here as he is one of the important English players."[LNB]Capello has also confirmed David James will start his first international since the qualifying victory over the Ukraine at Wembley on April 1, 2009, 10 games ago.[LNB]In addition, Aaron Lennon will also be handed a place in Capello's team to [LNB]face Japan, possibly on the left wing, where he has spent most of this week in [LNB]training.[LNB]Meanwhile, Capello confirmed reports about Gareth Barry's fitness were becoming increasingly more positive, although the final decision will be made [LNB]after one last medical check on his troublesome ankle that is due to take place on June 1.[LNB]"He has improved a lot," said Capello.[LNB]"He is getting better and better. The doctor says he is really good.[LNB]"But we have to wait until the last check next Tuesday. After that we will decide whether he will be with us in South Africa.[LNB]"If he can train normally following the first game against the United States (on June 12) he will come with us.[LNB]"If it is going to be longer he won't be with us in South Africa."[LNB]Kick-off in Graz is 1.15pm (BST)
