Eric Dier call-up as England squad announced for friendlies

Looking forward

Coach Hodgson has the chance to test his side against truly elite teams in La Roja (6/1) and Les Bleus (7/2), with the pair two favourites to claim the Euro crown, so these dead-rubbers are expected to be far from friendly.

Despite a perfect record in qualifying, England have faced few sides against which to truly measure their mettle, with a pool including the likes of San Marino and Lithuania.

Speaking to press, Hodgson said: “This is an opportunity to learn more about our players and test ourselves against two top nations ahead of next summer.”

Previous glamour friendlies against Italy and the Republic of Ireland both ended as disappointing draws, so fans will be hoping for improved showings this time around, especially when their French foes visit Wembley.

Sidelined stars

With burgeoning Manchester United left back Luke Shaw also out of action after suffering a leg break in the Champions League, this could be Southampton full back Ryan Bertrand’s chance to stake a claim to the spot, with Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs his only competition for the position.

England squad in full

Goalkeepers: Jack Butland (Stoke City), Joe Hart (Manchester City), Tom Heaton (Burnley)

Defenders: Ryan Bertrand (Southampton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool), Kieran Gibbs (Arsenal), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Chris Smalling (Manchester United), John Stones (Everton), Kyle Walker (Tottenham Hotspur)

Midfielders: Dele Alli (Tottenham Hotspur), Eric Dier (Tottenham Hotspur), Ross Barkley (Everton), Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Fabian Delph (Manchester City), Adam Lallana (Liverpool), James Milner (Liverpool), Jonjo Shelvey (Swansea City), Raheem Sterling (Manchester City)

Forwards: Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Jamie Vardy (Leicester City)

Related

Read more on Euro 2016 in our archive