England boss pleased with progress of back-ups
National coach Fabio Capello feels England are now well stocked when it comes to defensive options.
The Three Lions have been forced to experiment with several combinations at the back over the past 12 months, with injuries having hampered their plans.
That tactical experiment continued on their latest outing, in a 2-1 friendly victory over Denmark last Wednesday.
Michael Dawson was paired alongside John Terry in Copenhagen, with Gary Cahill stepping off the bench in the second half.
With captain Rio Ferdinand continuing to struggle with niggling knocks, it is essential that suitable cover is identified.
Capello believes he now has a number of possible options within his back four, with those offered the chance to prove their worth having made the most of their opportunities.
"I am not happy Rio was injured because he is a fantastic player but I was happy with the performance of the other defenders. This is the future," said Capello.
Value
"Gary Cahill is young, so is Michael Dawson, Joleon Lescott is also a good age.
"We also have Phil Jagielka, who was also injured. I am happy they have had the chance to play against a really good team. It made this one of the most important friendly games we have had.
"Now I understand the value of these players."
Capello is hoping that Ferdinand will be back to skipper the side when Euro 2012 qualifiers resume next month, but is confident he could handle the loss of the Manchester United centre-half should he fail to make a meeting with Wales on 26th March.
"I spoke with Sir Alex and monitored him for five games myself," reflected Capello.
"He played very well and was back to his best. Now, after the last injury, he must wait again to play more often.
"I don't know what is going to happen for the Wales game but I am happy with the possibilities I have."
The Three Lions have been forced to experiment with several combinations at the back over the past 12 months, with injuries having hampered their plans.
That tactical experiment continued on their latest outing, in a 2-1 friendly victory over Denmark last Wednesday.
Michael Dawson was paired alongside John Terry in Copenhagen, with Gary Cahill stepping off the bench in the second half.
With captain Rio Ferdinand continuing to struggle with niggling knocks, it is essential that suitable cover is identified.
Capello believes he now has a number of possible options within his back four, with those offered the chance to prove their worth having made the most of their opportunities.
"I am not happy Rio was injured because he is a fantastic player but I was happy with the performance of the other defenders. This is the future," said Capello.
Value
"Gary Cahill is young, so is Michael Dawson, Joleon Lescott is also a good age.
"We also have Phil Jagielka, who was also injured. I am happy they have had the chance to play against a really good team. It made this one of the most important friendly games we have had.
"Now I understand the value of these players."
Capello is hoping that Ferdinand will be back to skipper the side when Euro 2012 qualifiers resume next month, but is confident he could handle the loss of the Manchester United centre-half should he fail to make a meeting with Wales on 26th March.
"I spoke with Sir Alex and monitored him for five games myself," reflected Capello.
"He played very well and was back to his best. Now, after the last injury, he must wait again to play more often.
"I don't know what is going to happen for the Wales game but I am happy with the possibilities I have."
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