Shearer impressed with England squad

Alan Shearer has revealed that he is very impressed with the depth of England’s squad as they begin their preparations of the 2012 European Championships next summer.

Those over at FootballBoots.co.uk note how Fabio Capello used a large number of players over the two games against Spain and Sweden recently, with youngsters Phil Jones, Jack Rodwell and Kyle Walker impressing along the way.

Shearer thinks that this is a positive sign for England because Capello can now call upon a larger group of capable players than usual.

The former England striker said: “Two or three years ago you could probably name England's team but I don't think you can do that now.”

"There is more competition for places than there has been for a long time.”

It was of course encouraging that England completed two victories this week without a number of key players.

Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard, Jack Wilshere and Ashley Young would all be in the starting line-up usually, but played no part in either game.

John Terry sat out the win over Spain too, while his Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard was an unused substitute against Sweden.

Shearer continued: “There are not many automatic choices. Yes, Joe Hart will be one, John Terry is another and Ashley Cole would be one too. But, other than that, there are places up for grabs - and that's great to have.”

“There is no fear with the younger players. They just go out and play, they don't analyse the game too much and they bring a freshness to the squad and that was the case in the games against Spain and Sweden but I wouldn't get carried away.”

England have been optimistic in the lead up to tournaments before of course, but it hasn’t quite happened for them, so they will be cautious about putting too much pressure on the current squad.

Having said that, it is positive to have so many players to call upon and refreshing that some of the Premier League’s younger stars are starting to make a name for themselves on the international stage.

Whether it will create a positive Euro 2012 for England remains to be seen, but the team is moving forward.