Evertonian one of two Scots to break England’s Mix n Match power
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Scotland’s growth under Gordon Strachan is stark and the former Leeds midfielder’s growing popularity in his homeland will surely soar to new heights should he oversee a win over England at Celtic Park.
But while the match odds predict a close-fought encounter, our attempts to mix the two squads reveal a potentially one-sided affair, with only two of Strachan’s squad making the cut.
The entire defence, including the stopper, is English as Joe Hart takes the gloves from Cardiff’s David Marshall and Nathaniel Clyne betters Calum Chambers for the right-back berth.
Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines, all Three Lions regulars now, see no challenge to their spots from Grant Hanley, Christophe Berra and Russell Martin.
A vogue midfield diamond is anchored by the first Scot in the lineup, Darren Fletcher, who takes his place on the pitch thanks to his superior experience shielding defences when compared to anything Roy Hodgson has at his disposal.
Jordan Henderson and James Milner add industry and tenacity in front of the Manchester United vice-captain, with Raheem Sterling preferred to in-form Hammer Stewart Downing to operate at the tip.
Speaking of form, Everton’s Steven Naismith shunts Danny Welbeck out of the way to partner Wayne Rooney up top, considering the Arsenal man hasn’t netted in five outings and the Evertonian has been the model of consistency for Roberto Martinez.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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