Rodwell set for Swedish debut

Jack Rodwell is set to make his England debut against Sweden at Wembley on Tuesday.

The Everton midfielder is expected to miss out when the Three Lions play world champions Spain on Saturday but is in line for a start three days later.

Rodwell, 20, has been in fine form this season and will be given a chance against Sweden to force his way into coach Fabio Capello’s squad for Euro 2012.

While Capello has declared his desire to test young players in the two friendlies, Rodwell is expected to be spared the prospect of lining up for an international debut against the likes of Andres Iniesta and Xavi.

Rodwell has represented England at every level apart from the Under-20s and has been a key part of Stuart Pearce’s U-21 squad for the last two years.

Meanwhile, Manchester United and England defender Phil Jones has backed Chelsea captain John Terry ahead of the Spain clash.

Terry has been in the limelight in recent weeks for allegedly directing racial slurs at QPR defender Anton Ferdinand during a Premier League match a fortnight ago.

However, Jones insists the England captain sets a sterling professional example for younger players entering the international fold.

When queried if there has been awkwardness amongst the camp regarding Terry’s alleged racism row, Jones told reporters: “No, not at all, we’ve not felt that.”

“It’s been normal and it’s been a great team spirit in the camp and we’re looking forward to the game on Saturday.”

“Everything’s normal, you know, (Terry) is a great leader and a great captain. He’s a great player.”