Roy Hodgson’s determination not to rule out players because of age has led to an unexpected England call-up for Leon Osman, the talented Everton midfielder, who now gets his first opportunity at international level at the age of 31.

Osman may make his debut in Wednesday’s friendly in Sweden after being introduced to a squad that also features the return of Jack Wilshere and a place for the 17-year-old Raheem Sterling.

Wilshere’s inclusion demonstrates how strongly Hodgson wants a chance to work with him, despite Arsene Wenger warning that the midfielder cannot be rushed when he has only just come back from a 17-month layoff. Hodgson will also bring in Carl Jenkinson once Fifa gives its authorisation, as he had previously played for Finland’s U-21s and U-19s.