Leeds United: Former Leeds star Milner set to captain Three Lions

Roy Hodgson will hand the captain's armband to Liverpool's James Milner for the first time when England take on Holland at Wembley on Tuesday.
James MilnerJames Milner
James Milner

Hodgson revealed changes to his line-up would be limited and not wholesale as he had hinted prior to Saturday night’s 3-2 win in Germany, but confirmed former Leeds United midfielder Milner, 30, will be one of them and that fellow midfielder Danny Drinkwater will also make his debut.

Horsforth-born Milner will lead his country in his 58th appearance for England and Hodgson said he is the right fit for the current side.

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“As far as I’m concerned we’ve always known that James is a very good midfield player in central areas, capable of playing wide but also central areas,” Hodgson said.

“The way we’re trying to play at the moment and the way that Liverpool play, that’s right up his street.

“That’s the type of football he plays and it’s great he’s got the opportunity tomorrow to play in a position he’s very comfortable in – but also to do it as captain of his country.”

Hodgson also confirmed Daniel Sturridge will play. The Liverpool striker has not appeared for England since September 2014 due to injury.

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“I hinted a lot of things and sometimes I regret some of the hints I put out there,” said Hodgson about the expected changes.

“There’ll be some changes, how wholesale those will be you’ll have to wait and see.”