Hodgson right to bide his time

England manager Roy Hodgson confirmed on Tuesday that he would delay the naming of his squad for Euro 2016, a decision that could pay off in the next few weeks.

Earlier this year, the former Liverpool coach confirmed he would name his squad on May 12, despite the Premier League campaign finishing three days later.

Some questioned Hodgson’s decision-making, especially with possible injuries effecting his team for the tournament.

However, the coaching setup have now decided to delay their decision in order to assess the fitness of some players over the weekend.

The extra few days could prove crucial for the Three Lions, with Danny Welbeck and Jack Wilshere still fitness doubts.

Welbeck picked up a knee knock last week against Manchester City and the Gunners are still to announce the severity of the injury.

Everton’s Phil Jagielka and Liverpool’s Jordan Henderson are also in a race against time to overcome hamstring and knee injuries respectively.

Manchester United’s Luke Shaw is also trying to overcome a broken leg but Hodgson’s decision could pay off later this summer.

Hodgson’s delay now gives his squad the chance to prove their fitness and should they fail, the fringe players now know they have one weekend to prove they deserve to play for their country this summer.

The likes of Welbeck, Wilshere and Henderson have all paid huge roles in the qualifying campaign for the Euro’s and they could play a pivotal role in France.

England are currently priced at 9.00 to win Euro 2016 but they must first overcome Slovakia, Wales and Russia in Group B.