Noble stands out for England starting XI

Mark Noble leads a Claret and Hugh poll of West Ham fans who think he will be included in Roy Hodgson’s England squad which will be announced next week for International friendlies against Germany and Holland.

Nobes picked up 30.74% of the poll with 289 from 940 voting for the in-form West Ham midfielder.

Left back Aaron Cresswell followed in second place with 221 votes and 23.51% of the vote while Michail Antonio closely trailed in third place with 196 votes  on 20.85%

Andy Carroll registered just 34 votes and 3.62% of the vote while James Tomkins got one sympathy vote.

199 of 940 who voted, totalling 21.17% believe no West Ham player will be included when the squad for the International friendlies is announced.

Today Sky Sports back the poll by revealing that Mark Noble should make the  England starting eleven based on statistics.

Sky said “England’s best-performing midfielders dictate that a 4-4-2 diamond should be used across the middle of the park. According to the statistics, youngsters Barkley and Alli should partner Drinkwater and Noble. This means that there is no space for England regulars Raheem Sterling, Jordan Henderson or James Milner in the starting Xl.”

However in a final twist of fate Mark Noble will have logistical nightmares if he is called up for the Germany v England friendly on 26th March in Berlin as his 35,000 sell out Testimonial is just 3 days later on Easter Monday and the Holland friendly match  at Wembley is on Tuesday 29th March one day after his testimonial. He would need special permission to leave the England training camp.