England v Hungary preview

Jamie Carragher is likely to be deployed in a holding midfield role against Hungary.

Jamie Carragher is likely to be deployed in a holding midfield role for England's friendly with Hungary on Tuesday.

Widespread reports suggest the Liverpool defender will be given the chance to stake a claim for a World Cup starting berth in the match at Old Trafford.

England coach Sven Goran Eriksson has revealed his intention to field his strongest team available against the Hungarians, with a view to the same XI kicking off the World Cup campaign against Paraguay on June 10.

With Wayne Rooney still recovering from a foot injury, it appears likely Eriksson will opt to play Michael Owen as a lone striker, rather than in tandem with Peter Crouch.

Owen has overcome a minor injury scare to take his place against Hungary, with former Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard due to provide the key support.

But in the midfield anchor role, Eriksson is tipped to spring a surprise by naming Carragher as the man to shield the defence.

Tottenham's Michael Carrick appeared to be the obvious choice for the role, but Eriksson is leaning towards the selection of Carragher.

Though Carragher has occasionally operated in that position, in more recent seasons he has become a bedrock of the Liverpool defence, establishing himself as one of the most reliable centre halves in Europe.

With Carragher in midfield, the back four is due to comprise Gary Neville, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry and Ashley Cole, with Paul Robinson in goal.

Gerrard's role in linking up with Owen will leave captain David Beckham, Frank Lampard and Joe Cole filling the remaining midfield places.

Eriksson will doubtless ring the changes during the second half and Theo Walcott could become England's youngest-ever cap if he comes on as a substitute.

Aaron Lennon will also be hoping to get a chance to shine after impressing during the England B side's defeat to Belarus last Thursday.

For Hungary, there are likely to be two English-based players on show in Gabor Kiraly and Zoltan Gera.

Crystal Palace's Kiraly is due to start in goal, while West Brom schemer Gera is expected to play in behind lone striker Imre Szabics.