Ashley Cole is in line to win an historic 100th England cap next week, after being named in Roy Hodgson’s 24-man squad for the international friendly with Brazil.
The official FA website has revealed the squad, which sees Hodgson name no major surprises and prefer experience to youth ahead of a stern test against the 2014 World Cup hosts.
The game is the first of 2013 in a year of decorated friendly internationals to celebrate the 150th year of the FA.
Cole missed the most recent international against Sweden in November through injury. Everton’s in-form left-back Leighton Baines is likely to be a serious rival for a starting role next Wednesday though.
Chris Smalling is back in the squad after an injury-hit year, while there is a recall for Daniel Sturridge after a strong start to his Liverpool career.
Leon Osman retains his place, but Celtic goalkeeper Fraser Forster is injured, while there is no place for Scott Parker, along with youngsters Steven Caulker, Raheem Sterling and Wilfried Zaha.
The squad in full:
Goalkeepers:Defenders: Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Leighton Baines (Everton), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Kyle Walker (Tottenham), Chris Smalling (Manchester United), Joleon Lescott (Manchester City)
Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), James Milner (Manchester City), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Aaron Lennon (Tottenham), Leon Osman (Everton), Tom Cleverley (Manchester United)
Attackers: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Danny Welbeck (Manchester United), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool)
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