Southgate passes test

Sven-Goran Eriksson recalled Gareth Southgate to the England squad because of his ability to keep possession.

The England coach said he was "impressed" watching Middlesbrough captain Southagte against his old side Aston Villa at the weekend and called him up for Sunday's friendly against Denmark at Old Trafford.

Tord Grip, Eriksson's right-hand man, said: "Gareth has been terrific. Sven saw him play against Aston Villa and he impressed again.

"Because he started as a midfielder, he's good on the ball. We need those kind of players. We don't want defenders who win the ball only to give it away.

"Gareth retains possession well. He deserves his place in the squad. He's a nice guy, a good character and a very professional player."

Standard Sport columnist Southgate criticised Eriksson's leadership style earlier this season, claiming the Swede "makes sense but doesn't inspire" but Eriksson said the former Crystal Palace defender had a right to his own opinion and he didn't have any problem with the 33-year-old.

Grip added: "He's been out of the England set-up for a while, both due to injury and the fact that we've had so many good young centre-backs like John Terry and Matthew Upson also breaking through.

"They have both taken their chances well so we have good options.

"But Gareth is a reliable man and I think he can play on for another four or five years."