Cleverley receives England call-up

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley has been called up to the England squad for Wednesday’s friendly against the Netherlands.

The 21-year-old played a major role in Manchester United’s come-from-behind victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday, and impressed while on loan at Wigan athletic last season.

Cleverley comes into the squad as midfield cover for his United team-mate Michael Carrick and Arsenal youngster Jack Wilshere, who have both withdrawn after being assessed by the England medical team.

United and England team-mate Ashley Young Cleverley had earned his place in the squad.

Young said: “Tom has done terrific all pre-season. He was brilliant when he came on in the Community Shield and he has a great future ahead of him.”

“I am sure he will go on to be a top player. He is confident in his own ability and I am sure he will come here and do well.”

Should Cleverley play on Wednesday, it will be his first senior cap for England, having made 16 appearances for his country at Under-21 level.

England squad: Robert Green, Joe Hart, David Stockdale, Leighton Baines, Gary Cahill, Ashley Cole, Rio Ferdinand, Phil Jagielka, Joleon Lescott, Micah Richards, John Terry, Kyle Walker, Gareth Barry, Tom Cleverley, Stewart Downing, Adam Johnson, Frank Lampard, James Milner, Scott Parker, Ashley Young, Andy Carroll, Peter Crouch, Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck.