I really hope Hodgson is forward thinking enough to see past this world cup and into the future. Dragging the old school out time and time again to see them collecting their pension and playing for the money is just not on really, and the youth need to be given more of a chance. Still, he's made a start with Ashley Cole, telling him he wasn't going. I like the way it panned out where Hodgson says "Sorry Ashley, but you don't figure in my plans for the England squad.", and Ashley announces his international retirement the next day. How can you retire from a position you don't hold?
So, better to field a squad in the making and get some sharp football played, than field the old timers and hope they can manage to make it past the group stages without inflaming their arthritis.
I reckon a young squad will have a good chance of playing well and upsetting a few teams, but will fall at the fence when the real questions are asked. Through the group stages okay, and then go out in the second round.