World Cup 2014: Roy Hodgson says Danny Welbeck could start for England against Italy

Head coach Roy Hodgson says forward Danny Welbeck is in contention for a starting place in England's opening World Cup fixture against Italy in Manaus.

Welbeck has been struggling recently with a thigh problem but Hodgson says he has now shrugged off the niggle and will be fit to start if required.

Meanwhile midfielder Jordan Henderson says England's young additions have taken the side to the next level and could give them the edge against the Italians in what is a rematch of the quarter-final defeat on penalties at Euro 2012.