Everton centre-back Phil Jagielka has expressed his confidence in his teammate Leighton Baines to perform at left-back for England in the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Montenegro.
Baines is expected to fill in for Ashley Cole after the Chelsea defender, who has made over 100 appearances at international level, withdrew from the squad yesterday because of a rib injury.
"Ashley Cole has done a fantastic job," Jagielka told reporters today. "If Baines does get a chance to play, I'm sure he won't let us down. He's a fantastic defender and a fantastic attacking threat as well."
Cole's place in the 23-man squad has been taken by Arsenal's Kieran Gibbs.
England host Montenegro and Poland at Wembley on Friday and Tuesday respectively. Wins in both matches will guarantee the Three Lions a place at next year's World Cup in Brazil.
Written by
Pascal Lemesre
Pascal Lemesre
