YOUNG IS BACK IN THE WORLD CUP RECKONING

ASHLEY YOUNG will be given a chance to stake his claim for a World Cup place.

Gareth Southgate is set to call up the Manchester United defender when he names his squad on Thursday for friendlies against

Italy and Holland.

Southgate already had Young in mind before watching him at Old Trafford on Saturday and his performance in the win over Liverpool only reinforced his view.

The 32-year-old has been playing at full-back for United and his versatility has put him back in the frame after he fell out of the England reckoning.

Young, who has 31 caps, divides opinion when it comes to the Three Lions but now looks to have a big chance to be on the plane to Russia.

Southgate has also been checking on Burnley duo keeper Nick Pope and defender James Tarkowski, and veteran Brighton striker Glenn Murray.

There are major concerns about England keepers, with Joe Hart struggling for form and Stoke’s Jack Butland also having a difficult season.

Everton defender Michael Keane has also been below par, while Chelsea’s Gary Cahill is not an automatic choice.

Southgate may name a big squad to allow him to look at different options.