Contenders: Agbonlahor
Monday, 22 December, 2008
Gabriel Agbonlahor was awarded his Senior Team debut in the November friendly against Germany.
During 2008, Fabio Capello awarded caps to 35 players in ten games as England won eight, drew one and lost one. Today we look at Gabriel Agbonlahor's impact in his debut match against Germany.
Age 22
Date of Birth 13.10.86
Career Caps 1
Caps in 2008 1
Aston Villa
After taking his Under-21 appearance tally to 13 with four more caps for Stuart Pearce’s side in 2008, Gabriel was awarded a first Senior Team outing in the November friendly against Germany.
It was a good debut, too, for the Aston Villa striker. His pace caused the Germany defense all manner of problems, and he was unlucky to see a goal ruled out that would have given England a 2-0 lead ten minutes before the break.
His power helped open up another chance early in the second half but this time he fired into the side netting.
With 13 minutes left, Agbonlahor’s night was over as he was replaced by Villa team mate Ashley Young, but it will no doubt be one to remember for the 22-year-old.
Two months earlier, the first of his two goals for the Under-21s this year arrived at Wembley against Portugal and helped secure England top spot in the group and saw them face Wales for a place in the Finals.
Agbonlahor’s cheeky flick gave them a vital 3-2 win away in Cardiff in the first leg of their UEFA European Under-21 Championship play-off.
It would ultimately prove decisive for England as, four days later, a 2-2 draw at Villa Park was enough to see them reach Sweden next summer.