Sven Goran Eriksson believes Callum Wilson’s brief appearance against Iran has forced a selection dilemma on Gareth Southgate. Newcastle United’s number nine played 15 minutes in England’s World Cup opener and selflessly set up Jack Grealish in the closing stages.
An injury concern to Harry Kane saw the Three Lions’ skipper undergo a scan on his ankle ahead of the United States clash. Southgate and several England players have since confirmed that the striker is fit and should start tonight.
While the nation has avoided catastrophe, any injury to Kane would open the door for Wilson to stake his claim. The 30-year-old is the only other out-and-out striker in the squad.
READ MORE: ' You can't always be nice' - Newcastle have already found ideal transfer profile in 'bad loser'
Manchester United star Marcus Rashford can play through the middle but has spent most of his career operating on the left flank. Newcastle fans value Wilson as a credible alternative to Kane - and former England boss Eriksson does, too.
The 74-year-old heaped praise on those who came off the bench against Iran, giving special mention to Wilson’s unselfish assist. He told Midnite: “It wasn't just the starting XI that played well, those that came on were fantastic.
“Marcus Rashford played very well when he came on, Jack Grealish also played well and Callum Wilson played a fantastic pass for the last goal - so Gareth Southgate has a lot of options. For the remainder of the group stages, England can continue to play offensively as they did against Iran but things may be different depending on who they meet in the knockout stages.”
READ NEXT
Callum Wilson jokes Jack Grealish 'owes him' as Newcastle star explains 'rare' England assist
Amanda Staveley's Newcastle stadium wish comes true as she's proved right by remarkable response
Ryan Fraser attracting January transfer interest with Matt Ritchie's Newcastle future up in the air
Harry Kane injury update emerges with Newcastle star Callum Wilson on England standby
Newcastle United owners will pay close attention to Man United takeover saga as Glazers 'eye sale'
