International Friendlies
Mar 31, 2015 7.45pm
1
1
HT : 1 0
FT
  • Graziano Pelle 29' goal
  • Graziano Pelle 36' yellowcard
  • yellowcard Kieran Gibbs 32'
  • yellowcard Phil Jones 70'
  • goal Andros Townsend 79'

Roy Hodgson: 'Ross Barkley, Andros Townsend changed game for us'

Hodgson: 'Barkley, Townsend changed game'

Roy Hodgson has hailed the performances of Ross Barkley and Andros Townsend as England held Italy to a a 1-1 draw in Turin.

Townsend provided the Three Lions with an equaliser 11 minutes from time, with Barkley's introduction sparking a more offensive performance from Hodgson's men in Juventus Stadium.

"Barkley was fantastic," the England manager told ITV Sport. "I thought he and Townsend turned the game and Barkley was really really good.

"[Barkley] was very brave and courageous. He was prepared to get on the ball and take people on and he really is an outstanding young talent, and it's great we've had the chance to have him with us.

"I've also got to reserve a word for Andros, because he's come in and given us a moment of magic when we've needed it. Even in a friendly to come to Italy at any time is never an easy thing to do. We're indebted to Andros really."

England are now unbeaten in eight games, and haven't tasted defeat since they were beaten 2-1 by Uruguay in the second game of their World Cup campaign in June.

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