Take your pick

The Reasoning

Goalkeepers

Paul Robinson - I think you'll see Robinson and Green battle for the starting gig for the next few years. Easily the best option as it stands right now.

Robert Green - He's had flashes of brilliance and was a real bright spot in Norwich's Premiership season. If he can grow into his potential - this is the next great one.

David James - Offers more experience than any other 'keeper.

Defenders

Gary Neville - Battle-tested on the international stage. He's cool and collected on the ball. Not a flashy player but will always get the job done.

Jamie Carragher - Simply put - watch him in action in the Champions League. He's passionate and committed to the cause. A great team player.

Zat Knight - Dynamic in the air, strong and sticks with assignments. He has a lot of growing to do (in the game - not in his size), and needs some more international experience - but he does have great potential and is an excellent prospect.

Rio Ferdinand - He's a world-class defender who has absolutely everything: tall, strong, good in the air, quick off the mark and can also play football too. Has leadership qualities and a mean streak as well.

John Terry - It's his time to take his position in this squad and cement it. He had a phenomenal year and is as lethal a scoring threat as they come.

Sol Campbell - He's been a fixture for England for the last few years - and for good reason - he's brilliant. His invaluable experience and leadership alone make him an easy selection.

Ashley Cole - I love his game - fantastic work rate, exceptional ability...not afraid to mix it up when necessary, and will get up the field and track back. He's everything you could ever want in a left fullback.

Personally I used to love what Le Saux brought to the table, but Cole has everything Le Saux had and much much more. He'll be in an England jersey for quite some time.

Phil Neville - He is not afraid to tackle hard and is a great asset to have when holding a lead.

Midfielders

David Beckham - Honestly, if you need a reason - you've been hiding under a rock since the Greece game. He's a world class player - and he's the best captain in the world - bar none!

Shaun Wright-Phillips - Similar approach to the game that Becks takes. Excellent crosser of the ball and will be used as a means of gaining international experience and can be a utility player in case others have injuries - because he can play multiple positions effectively.

Steven Gerrard - This is Gerrard's time to step up for his country. He's a fantastic player and can equal his club level play on the international stage. Since becoming Liverpool's captain, he's been in world class form, and his work rate is phenomenal.

Jermaine Jenas - I liked what I saw of him on the American tour. Look for him to be a reserve for some of the other players, at least in the beginning of his career - but he may take the next step very soon. Silky smooth player.

Joe Cole - He brings almost a South American flair to the English side. He has become much more effective with his tricks and can be very dangerous on the left side (which has been a definite problem for the England squads of yesteryear).

I am not saying he's as crafty as, say, a Ronaldinho, but he's quick and very creative to both sides and he likes to run at defences. He has also learned how to utilise his teammates and get them into very dangerous offensive positions.

Kieran Richardson - Really showed his true form on the American tour (when he played). I like his ability and his youth. Look for him to slowly forge his way into position with this squad. Very effective on the ball and a tireless work ethic.

Frank Lampard - His passing ability is exceptional, and he will spring our horses up front. Also, his shot is devastating.

Forwards

Michael Owen - I personally do not understand why he does not play more for Real Madrid. Hands down he is the most dangerous striker since Shearer left international play for England. He just has a nose for goal along with the pace and effective decisions needed for a world class striker. His resumé of goal scoring speaks for itself. He has been as electrifying as any player that has every donned the England jersey - from the minute he stepped on the pitch. Who could every forget the goal he scored against Argentina?

Peter Crouch - What he brings to the table is a much needed presence in the attacking third. He lacks experience playing with Owen and Rooney, but this guy can be the one that could set them free by winning headballs and getting them in the open field, running at the goals with a deft flick (which is where Owen and Rooney are most effective). Look for Crouch to be a spark in the 70th or 80th minute if there needs to be a goal scored.

Jermain Defoe - Provides an option off of the bench - pace, and attacking style are both elite.

Andy Johnson - I just want to see what this kid can do. He's a scrapper and he's a team guy - I love his ability and I love the fact that he is not afraid to mix it up with others. Also, his goal scoring ability in the EPL is very impressive. I would like to see what he can do on the international level.

Wayne Rooney - There is not a player that reminds me more of Gazza in the world. Rooney is hands down the prototypical striker, who combines every aspect of a player that you would want going to goal: strength, pace, he's a monster in the air and has a blistering shot. In addition, he makes for a very creative option to Owen with his creative flair and his dramatic play.

So what do you think of Alex's squad? Agree? Disagree? Has he made a glaring omission? Has he justified his selections?

If you can do better, send your 23 and the reasons for it to Editor@TheFA.com and, if it's good, we'll run it over the next two weeks. One of the best selectors will win a pair of tickets to England v Poland. So get choosing! Entries accepted until Friday 1 July.

For information on how to join englandfans, the Official England Supporters Club, go to TheFA.com/englandfans.

Past Picks
Monday 20 June - Andrew Gill
Tuesday 21 June - James Pickles
Wednesday 22 June - Mike Cole