Gary Cahill believes Roy Hodgson’s decision to only pick three recognised centre-backs for his 26-man provisional squad will not be a problem, according to the Evening Standard.
The England manager has confirmed that Everton defender Phil Jagielka had been sacrificed in order to free up another attacking option.
Gary Cahill, Chris Smalling, and John Stones will be on the plane to France with the option of Tottenham’s Eric Dier filling in as a last resort.
But with Cahill having largely played second fiddle to John Terry and Kurt Zouma until both were injured in February, many England fans were questioning Roy’s decision.
The Chelsea defender, who is expected to partner Chirs Smalling in England’s first group game against Russia – believes his understanding with the Manchester United defender will be the key to their success.
Cahill said:
I find it comfortable playing with him, this season he has kicked on again and I think he has been terrific for United. He has captained the team a couple of times and he has been a big player for them; to be a big player for a football club that size is impressive and he has come on leaps and bounds since last year. He is a top-class performer so to play next to him, it has made my job easier.
Cahill also went on to say it is absolutely vital that Roy Hodgson’s men get off to a good start against Russia.
We need to get off to a good start and that will be key to easing the pressure. Of course we need to defend better as a team but it is ultimately about results. If we get the right result in the first game then it breeds confidence. It’s all about getting a good start.
The former Bolton man has featured 20 times in the Premier League for the blues this season, scoring two goals, which included that all-important strike against London rivals Tottenham at Stamford Bridge two weeks ago.
England kick-off their Euro 2016 campaign against the Russian’s in Marseille on June 11th.
