Taylor in for injured Cahill

Newcastle defender Steven Taylor has been called up to the England squad for the World Cup qualifier with San Marino after Gary Cahill was ruled out.

Chelsea centre-half Cahill picked up a knee injury during the Blues 2-0 win over West Ham on Sunday and following an exam by England's medical staff has been deemed unfit for Friday's game with group minnows San Marino.

The 27-year-old could return in time for Tuesday's game with Montenegro if he can prove his fitness before the trip to Podgorica.

England coach Roy Hodgson will be desperate for Cahill to prove his fitness in time for the crunch game with Montenegro having lost three of the four centre-halfs he originally picked.

Michael Dawson, Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jagielka have all been forced to withdraw from the qualifying double header because of injury, with Steven Caulker, Joleon Lescott, Chris Smalling and now Taylor Hodgson’s options at centre-half.

Newcastle star Taylor has been called up as cover for Cahill for the game in San Marino, which England are 1.01 to win, with the hosts 81.00 to cause a major upset.

Taylor has been one of the Toon's best performers this season and the 27-year-old his good form has been recognised with a call-up to the Three Lions squad.

Taylor said: "I am so happy to have received a call-up to the full squad. It's every player's ambition to represent their country.



"If I am lucky enough to be given that chance over the next seven days, it will be one of the proudest moments of my playing career."

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England are 1.10 to qualify for the 2014 World Cup, despite going into the next round of matches two points behind group leaders Montnegegro.

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