It has been hailed as Danny Welbeck’s big chance – but Liverpool striker Andy Carroll is also reported to be starting too.
We speculated whether England would start with two strikers, and early reports claim the pair will play up front together.
The match against Sweden is simply a must-win game for England, irrespective of how France v Ukraine pans out.
I’m predicting a 2-0 England win. We have looked solid at the back in the past three games under Hodgson and Sweden shouldn’t trouble our defence, even with the talented Zlatan Ibrahimovic up front.
It will be a big battle in the centre of midfield, and Scott Parker and Steven Gerrard can’t let their energy levels drop after excellent performances against France.
If Carroll does start, somebody will have to drop out, and it has been suggested that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will be the unlucky player.
It could all work out, his impact display off the bench may just give us a lift at the right time if it is not going our way.
My prediction is 2-0 to England with goals from Ashley Young and Andy Carroll. Yes Andy Carroll.
The reason why he will score is simple – Euro 2012 is the tournament of the maligned striker.
Nicklas Bendtner has two goals, Helder Postiga has one, even Fernando Torres scored twice last night.
Mario Gomez, a man criticised for his Champions League displays for Bayern against Madrid and Chelsea struck back with three goals.
Andriy Shevchenko, Chelsea’s worst ever signing turned in a virtuoso performance against Sweden to carry Ukraine to a 2-1 win.
England need a win tonight otherwise the final game against host nation Ukraine will be incredibly tough.
Looking at the roll call of strikers who have been criticised in recent months, years even, it looks written in the stars Andy Carroll will score. Bet on it.
Do you agree? Will Carroll score tonight?
image: © dannymol
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