Roy To Keep Ossie In Mind

England chief says he will consider midfielder for next squad.

England manager Roy Hodgson has promised to consider Leon Osman for his next squad after being impressed by the midfielder's debut showing against Sweden on Wednesday.

At 31, Osman became the Three Lions' third oldest debutant of the last 58 years but looked every bit the seasoned international, involving himself in much of his country's better play.

And while the game ended in a 4-2 defeat for Hodgson's men, the former Fulham and West Brom boss felt his new recruit made a solid claim for further recognition in the future.

"Osman deserves a mention," said Hodgson. "To step in at 31, albeit a young 31 who doesn't look or play like a 31-year-old, and give the performance he did in what was an experimental team (was good).
 
"We're playing against their best team with as many as 10 players who normally play for England on the injured list or not with us.

Leon Osman in action for England

"It's very good for me to know that a player like Osman, someone I've thought a lot of for a number of years since coming back to English football, can be brought in relatively late in his career and do the job he did.

"The next time I put a squad together I can't make guarantees but one thing is for sure: I believed in him and gave him a chance and he took the chance.

"He's certainly a name we will be discussing very seriously the next time we get together."

Meanwhile, Everton manager David Moyes admitted he was pleased to hear Osman had made a positive impact.

The Blues boss was unable to watch the game but said it came as no surprise to learn his midfield lynchpin had caught the eye.

"The people who I have spoken to after the game said that they thought Ossie played very well," he said. "He didn't look out of place and for someone to come in for his first game and do that is excellent.

"I said before that he would take the ball and help England play, change the direction of the play with a turn on the ball.

"It's probably one of the things that people have labelled towards England, that they need to keep better possession. Leon Osman, I am sure, would have helped that.

"I said before, if he got one cap, then I would be delighted. I didn't know if he was going to be picked or if he would play, but I think now to have a cap for his country is something that he'll always remember and be grateful for.

"I don't know if he'll get any more, but if he keeps his form up, he'll certainly be under consideration.

"I asked him how he thought it was and he said he felt comfortable," added Moyes. "I asked if there was anything special, he said 'no'. I think he felt comfortable with the players around him. That tells you a little bit about his ability and what he thinks."