Former England striker Michael Owen has launched a scathing attack on some of the current youngsters in the national team by describing them as "overhyped".

The Three Lions endured an uninspiring 0-0 stalemate in Kiev on Tuesday that keeps them in pole position for World Cup qualification in Group H.

While some have called for the younger players to be given a more prominent role in the international set-up, Owen feels that the older guard are still a better option.

"More than happy with that result tonight. Top of the group with two home games to play," Owen said on Twitter. "Few good performances, few average and a couple poor. Average performance overall. Surprised [Michael] Carrick wasn't involved.

"In terms of qualifying for the World Cup, tonight's result was very good. In terms of looking to the future, it's hard to be positive. Our best players are still the older brigade. [Steven] Gerrard, in particular is by far our best player. Some overhyped youngsters.

"How many of the England players that pulled out of tonight's game will be available to play for their clubs this weekend?"

When one fan messaged the 33-year-old saying: "No, the older players are holding England back. Gerrard and [Frank] Lampard are done!!," Owen responded: "Who is better? Nobody close."

England host Montenegro and Poland at Wembley in their final Group H games next month.

Written by
Matt Cotton