Sam Allardyce’s Bold Squad Selection for Slovakia Clash
In his first squad announcement as England manager, Sam Allardyce has made waves by including West Ham’s Michail Antonio – the only uncapped player selected for September’s World Cup qualifier against Slovakia. The 26-year-old’s inclusion caps a remarkable journey from non-league football to the international stage, a story that embodies the modern football fairytale.
The Antonio Phenomenon: Why He Earned His Call-Up
Since joining West Ham in 2015, Antonio has:
- Scored 8 headed goals (Premier League best)
- Demonstrated versatility across right-back and midfield
- Netted twice already in the current campaign
“His athleticism and goal threat give us something different,” Allardyce told Babu88 sources. “At 5’11”, he’s outperforming taller players in aerial duels – that’s pure determination.”
Notable Inclusions and Omissions
Returning Faces
- Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
- Phil Jagielka (Everton)
- Theo Walcott (Arsenal)
Surprising Exclusions
- Ross Barkley (despite strong Everton form)
- Mark Noble (West Ham captain overlooked)
- Jermain Defoe (Sunderland’s veteran striker)
Tactical Implications for Slovakia Match
Allardyce’s selection hints at:
- Aerial Dominance: With Antonio, Kane, and Vardy all strong in the air
- Midfield Balance: Drinkwater’s recall suggests a more defensive approach
- Pace on Counter: Walcott and Sterling provide blistering speed
Expert View: What This Means for England
Former England defender Jamie Carragher told Babu88: “Allardyce is sending a clear message – current form trumps reputation. Antonio‘s work rate fits Big Sam’s philosophy perfectly.”
Full Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers
- Fraser Forster (Southampton)
- Joe Hart (Manchester City)
- Tom Heaton (Burnley)
Defenders
- Gary Cahill (Chelsea)
- Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool)
- Phil Jagielka (Everton)
- Danny Rose (Tottenham)
- Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
- Chris Smalling (Manchester United)
- John Stones (Manchester City)
- Kyle Walker (Tottenham)
Midfielders
- Dele Alli (Tottenham)
- Michail Antonio (West Ham)
- Eric Dier (Tottenham)
- Danny Drinkwater (Leicester)
- Jordan Henderson (Liverpool)
- Adam Lallana (Liverpool)
- Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
- Raheem Sterling (Manchester City)
- Theo Walcott (Arsenal)
Forwards
- Harry Kane (Tottenham)
- Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool)
- Jamie Vardy (Leicester)
Conclusion: A New Era for England?
Michail Antonio’s call-up symbolizes Allardyce’s willingness to reward merit over reputation. As England prepare for Slovakia, the Babu88 team will be watching closely to see if this bold selection pays dividends. Can Antonio translate his club form to international level? Only time will tell, but one thing’s certain – the Allardyce era has begun with a refreshing approach to squad selection.
