Cole poised for England debut

Joe Cole could make his England debut in tomorrow night's friendly against Mexico at Derby's Pride Park.

The 19-year-old West Ham midfielder ended the season in a positive fashion and his talent is unquestioned.

He is one of four uncapped players in the England squad along with club mate Michael Carrick and Leeds United's Alan Smith and Danny Mills.

Like Cole, 20-year-old striker Smith is also expected to win his first cap against Mexico. But it is not clear whether they will start or be introduced from the substitutes' bench.

The latter would seem more likely if England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson decides that the starting line-up against Mexico will be the team that faces Greece in next week's World Cup qualifying tie in Athens.

Manchester United defender Wes Brown will not be fit to play against Mexico and could miss the match against Greece.

Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard also requires treatment to a back injury but is definitely expected to face the Greeks.