Glen Johnson claims he'd start over Kieran Trippier for England and says Marcus Rashford should be coming off the bench ahead of Callum Wilson. The former Liverpool defender, who made 54 caps for his country, was part of England's Euro 2012 side that was knocked out of the tournament by Italy and then called up to the 2014 World Cup squad.
The Newcastle United duo have both been in fine form for their club this season, with Trippier the highest-rated performer for Eddie Howe's side, according to WhoScored. Despite being impressed by the Toon defender, Johnson claims he'd start ahead of the Magpies full-back in his prime.
Speaking to Genting Casino, he said: "I'd 100% fancy my chances to start ahead of Trippier in my prime, but I'm 38 now! I'm impressed with Trippier, he's a good player, technically good and great for set-pieces, but I would be confident of starting ahead of him."
READ MORE: Harry Kane injury latest as Callum Wilson shows England World Cup class
Wilson came off the bench for a solid cameo, setting up England's sixth goal against Iran, when he could have easily gone for goal himself. For a moment, it had looked as though his opportunity to come off the bench had gone begging, after Harry Maguire was substituted after feeling unwell.
Manchester United's Rashford came off the bench, alongside Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Eric Dier, with the Red Devils forward grabbing a goal with an immediate impact. Johnson says he'd make sure Rashford was the first name coming off the bench, ahead of Wilson in the pecking order.
He added: "It would be harsh for Rashford to start in front of the lads who scored the first four goals, you don't want to change the team when you're winning. Rashford is an incredible player and for someone like him to come off the bench and have that impact is exactly what you need to get to the final in these tournaments.
"Of course he'd be disappointed to not be starting, but he'll have more confidence and I'd be surprised if he is not the first striker off the bench next time. Overall, I'd want Rashford to come off the bench first out of the attackers, but it will depend on who we play against.
"If it's a top team, you might pick Grealish who can do something a bit deeper in the park. If Rashford is up against good, quick defenders, he won't be as effective as he was against Iran."
READ NEXT
Newcastle are looking where Kevin Keegan found 'frighteningly good' star
Wonderkid snubbed Manchester United and Leeds United to join Newcastle despite Sir Alex's claim
Newcastle have already found exciting 16-year-old wonderkid who has trained with the first team
Eddie Howe sends Financial Fair Play warning before Newcastle hold high-level transfer talks
James Maddison's 'bittersweet' confe ssion hints at test he has already passed at Newcastle
