Carra for England - Hamann

By MIghty Reds
May 24 2006

Dietmar Hamann is urging Sven Goran Eriksson to give Jamie Carragher a chance to prove his worth as a central defender for England.

Hamann believes Carra is as good, if not better, than any central defender in the Premiership, especially over the last two seasons.

Hamann said:


"Over the last two season I don't see anyone who's played better than Jamie at centre-back, certainly not in the Premiership," said Carragher.

"England has a lot of quality players in that position with Terry, Ferdinand and Ledley King, who isn't in the squad this time.

"But if you ask me if they've played better than Carra since he moved to centre-half, the answer is no.

"The England coaches will know if they pick him, he won't let them down. It's in his favour he's so versatile so he can do a job wherever he plays.

"He's as good as anyone around at the moment and I think he should play an important role."

Hamann expects a few surprises during the world cup.

He says:

"I'll be wishing everyone well. Not only the England lads, but also our Spanish players," he added.

"You can never rule out Germany, although they have lot more younger players this time. At home, they can still beat anyone on their day.

"I think Brazil will have to be considered favourites, but if you're looking for dark horses have a look at Serbia and Montenegro and the Ivory Coast for a place in the last eight. I think they've got a lot of quality players and will get some good results."