Carson to start against Austria
Scott Carson is preparing for his full England debut in Austria tonight
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Friday, 16, Nov 2007 04:08
England manager Steve McClaren has confirmed his starting lineup for the friendly against Austria tonight, which includes goalkeeper Scott Carson.
The Aston Villa stopper will make his full international debut after making the step up from under-21 level, where he is the all-time record cap-winner for England.
"He's been around the squad for a long time," McClaren said.
"He had a busy summer in the under-21 tournament and his performances for Aston Villa have been very, very good.
"The game will be an ideal opportunity for him to experience international football."
LA Galaxy midfielder David Beckham will also start the match, winning his 98th international cap in a controversial midfield that also includes the central partnership of stand-in captain Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.
This selection is sure to raise eyebrows after Villa captain Gareth Barry's recent form for club and country, but McClaren claims the Chelsea man has been equally impressive and deserves the chance to try to build an understanding with Gerrard.
"Gareth Barry has performed excellently in the last three games but Frank's form since he has come back from injury has been a revelation," McClaren told Sky Sports.
"He has played some of the best football I've seen him play."
Injuries have forced McClaren into a reshuffle in defence as well.
Joleon Lescott moves from left-back to centre-back after appearing out of his depth on the flank in Russia and partners veteran Sol Campbell in the middle of the back four.
Wayne Bridge starts on the left in place of first-choice Chelsea club-mate Ashley Cole, who is still recovering from an ankle injury and will not be risked ahead of the potentially crucial qualifier against Croatia next Wednesday.