Is Tom Cleverley an automatic choice for England?
It’s every footballers dream to play for his or her country at International level and Tom Cleverley is no different.
Indeed England boss Roy Hodgson seems to like the Manchester United midfielder as he appears to be one of the first names on the team sheet. Now as a football writer I like to see great players coming through both club and International level.
I must have missed something as I see him as no more than an average player. Don't get me wrong, I don't think he's a bad player; I just don't see him as an automatic starter for club and country.
He works hard in midfield but then again I'd like to think every player does. I suppose I'm asking what's that 'special' thing he brings to a team? His tackling and closing down is good and I'm starting with what I think is his best skill!
His passing is all right but again I can't see it stands out!
I think the poorest part of his game is in the air; I'm sure it can improve. I do like the way Hodgson is giving the younger members of the squad some games and experience and I applaud that but again, why an automatic starter?
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain in my opinion should start ahead of him!
His passing and pace are better and as for aerial power it’s no contest!
Maybe he'd lose on the tackling to his England team mate but that would be the only department.
It wouldn't be fair of me to compare him to seasoned campaigner Steven Gerrard; despite both playing in midfield they both play a totally different game.
Manchester City's James Milner is another that can be used in Cleverley's position. He has played all across the midfield throughout his career so it wouldn't be anything new.
Of course this is why I write about the beautiful game and football Managers pick teams and tactics. I hope Cleverley proves me wrong and that really would give me a kick in the balls.