Five Three Lions fringe players: Who could roar for England?

England’s Euro 2016 qualifiers against minnows San Marino and potential roadblock Estonia are a just around the corner, so Coral writers have taken a peek at which players could come in from the cold and take the chance to impress.

These encounters with some of Europe’s lesser lights, and the absence of key men, are the perfect opportunity for relative newcomers and fringe players to stake a place in Roy Hodgson’s starting XI.

Nathaniel Clyne
An unfortunate injury to Everton defender John Stones, who has been the starting right back in England’s last two outings, could pave the way for Clyne to receive his long-awaited international debut.

With Glen Johnson, Phil Jones and Kyle Walker also sidelined, the slot is certainly there for the taking. Clyne’s main competition will be from former Southampton clubmate Calum Chambers, who has impressed as an attacking presence on Arsenal’s right flank, but does not yet provide the stability and balance that Clyne can offer.

The Crystal Palace academy product has had a slow ascent to football’s top-flight, but is the more reliable for it. That is not to say that in-form full back Clyne cannot offer support up front, as the 23-year-old recently illustrated with his thumping winner against the Gunners in the Capital One Cup.

Fabian Delph
Delph will be hoping to earn his second cap and build on what was an impressive bow against Switzerland last time out.

The Aston Villa midfielder was awarded a yellow card on that occasion, but will probably not be required to put in as much of a defensive shift against San Marino. He is available at 16/1 to show off his more attacking attributes and hit home last against the Mediterranean minnows.

Delph did provide greater balance on the left of the Three Lions’ midfield diamond and, after another all-round display of energy, nous and thrust against Manchester City, would not be such a surprise starter this time around.

Fraser Forster
Forster is one of those who has been on the fringes of the first team for some time, and will be hoping his summer switch from Celtic to the bright lights of the Premier League will see him finally trade places with Joe Hart.