TOTAL RECALL FOR JASON?
Now, after a man-of-the-match performance in Leeds` 2-1 victory at Sunderland, in which he scored his first goal since a £3 million move to the club and set up the other in front of England manager Kevin Keegan, speculation is now rife that he is to get a Euro 2000 recall.
Wilcox, 29, spent 14 years at Blackburn and succeeded Tim Sherwood as captain when he left for Tottenham, but was immediately banished to the bench and made to hand over the captains armband when the unsuccessful Kidd left with the club dangerously close to the First Division relegation zone.
Leeds manager David O`Leary stepped in and gave Wilcox an early Christmas present by giving him a chance to resurrect his career east of the Pennines and, judging by Sunday`s performance, he has not looked back.
Bolton-born Wilcox already has two England caps to his name and is thought to have become the leading contender to fill the troublesome left-sided spot of Keegan`s midfield in February`s "friendly" against Argentina.
His former Blackburn manager Ray Harford has been one of the first to throw his name into the ring. "It was good to see Jason back in that kind of form. The timing is perfect for him regarding England. I`d certainly pick him ahead of Steve Guppy."
O`Leary was similarly impressed by Wilcox`s start to his Leeds career. "I don`t know why Blackburn decided to let him go. He gives us great balance. I`ve always rated him, even after playing against him during my career."
The player himself was less keen to comment on the speculation. "I`ve still got my England ambitions, although my first priority is to get a regular place in the Leeds side. I`m no different to any other player when it comes to playing for England.
"I knew coming to a club like Leeds would help my chances with England and I would be delighted to get involved in the set-up again," he added. "Euro 2000 is certainly an aim. If anything comes along with England, then I will take it with both hands.
"Hopefully I can keep my place for Leeds, and then who knows what will happen. I`m not getting carried away, I thought I did alright but it`s great to get off the mark and on the scoresheet."
CLICK HERE to read our Opta Stat Story on Jason Wilcox.
David Allen
