England boss Roy Hodgson will not push Manchester United players in friendly
Wednesday 6 February 2013 09:12, UK
England manager Roy Hodgson is prepared to go easy on his Manchester United players during a friendly date with Brazil.
Important
England have often used friendly fixtures to cast an eye over those on the fringes of the squad, but Hodgson claims he is ready to bring stability and consistency to his selections.
He added: "I've done my casting around. I am confident now I know the players.
"It's been important for me to give people the chance to show what they can do, to have a few days working with them and learning about them. But I would be very surprised if we'll use 44 players this year. Maybe (it is a big year) but I can't think in those terms.
"There have been quite a few years, most of my 38 as a manager, where I've thought being success or failure that particular year will have an effect on the way I'm viewed.
"I was aware of the huge responsibility when I took on the job.
"The only thing I can do is make certain I take my job seriously, do the best I can and ensure the team is well prepared. Then I hope I will get the results."