Stoke news: Shay Given backs Jack Butland as England's No1
JACK BUTLAND will be dreaming of a bright Christmas, because the New Year looks like being a bit of an up-and-downer.
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Stoke’s young goalkeeper could end up being England’s No1 at the World Cup in Russia – after being relegated with the Potters.
While Stoke face a relegation fight Butland has gone up the Three Lions pecking order – with Joe Hart losing his first-team place on loan at West Ham like he did at parent club Manchester City.
Now former Irish international keeper Shay Given backs Butland to shine for England next year, even though Everton’s Jordan Pickford is a strong contender.
England have a few candidates to be first choice, but for me Jack will be the long-term No1 for England if he stays fit
Given, who recognised Butland’s potential when he worked with him at Stoke, says: “England have a few candidates to be first choice, but for me Jack will be the long-term No1 for England if he stays fit.
“He’s had bad luck with injuries and was out for a year, but if he can stay injury-free Jack has a big future with England.”
Now Butland is hoping he can beat the injury jinx until next March when England play two high-profile friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy.
