Terry implores youngsters to shine

John Terry says England’s upcoming friendlies are an ideal way for younger players to force their way into Fabio Capello’s Euro 2012 plans.

Chelsea defender Terry thinks it is great for the team to see so many youngsters coming through the ranks and starting in the Premier League, which has made Capello stand up and take notice.

The England captain told Chelsea’s official website: “We’ve got a couple of friendlies, Spain next month, and there is a lot of preparation so I expect the management to try new things, new formations, and new players as well because the younger players have made a massive impact.”

“We’ve got a couple here, Studge (Daniel Sturridge) and Josh (McEachran) who can really push for places.”

“We’ve seen the manager give chances to the likes of Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley as well, so it’s refreshing for the youth of English football and the younger players coming through at the moment.”

Terry added that the England squad kept their celebrations in check after sealing qualification for Euro 2012 with a draw against Montenegro last week.

“It was a bit strange after the game on Friday knowing the draw was enough,” Terry said. “We didn’t really celebrate.”

“Sometimes it’s like that, we’ve done what we had to do and we’ve gone undefeated in the group as well which is a big achievement with some tough away games.”

“We’re there, that’s all we could have done and we’ve put ourselves in a great position. For myself to be leading the country is a great honour and hopefully we keep everyone fit and go to the finals with a full squad.”