Montenegro v England: Ferdinand and Gerrard out of crucial squad

Fabio Capello looks like making good on his promise to go out and attack in Montenegro after naming his final squad for the crucial qualifier.

England only need a point out in Montenegro to qualify for Euro 2012, but the Italian has included five strikers in the squad – Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck, Darren Bent, Bobby Zamora and Andy Carroll – after having his midfield options limited by injuries.

His only fit central midfield players are Gareth Barry, James Milner and Scott Parker, meaning he was left with little option other than to pack the attacking positions.

It’s hardly a disaster though with Barry being very solid for Manchester City so far this season and Lampard showing he was back to his best with a brilliantly taken hat-trick against Bolton Wanderers on Sunday.

The omission of Steven Gerrard won’t come as a surprise with both the player and Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish stating they didn’t think he was ready to play.

However, Rio Ferdinand not being called upon is a minor shock, with the centre half surely having the experience to provide a cool head out in Montenegro.

He hasn’t been a regular starter for Manchester United this season though and Capello previously had his fingers burnt when Ferdinand was ruled out of the 2010 World Cup with injury – despite making the trip to South Africa.

With England having so much attacking talent in the squad, backing the Three Lions to come through and win out in Montenegro looks appetising at 8/11 – especially if the likes of Rooney and Welbeck can replicate their club form.