Tale of two England hopefuls

Anderton (top) has been performing well for Spurs

BBC Sport's Ray Stubbs looks at the differing fortunes of England recalls Darren Anderton and Kevin Phillips.

It will be interesting to see during this international week if Darren Anderton and Kevin Phillips share a room.

Both are in the same boat, but will be looking to prove their England credentials for different reasons.

Tottenham midfielder Anderton has played for England in the top competitions, but has been plagued by injury - maybe this is his chance to stay injury free and enjoy a long run at international level?

Sunderland's Phillips, on the other hand, is desperate to prove himself after missing out on previous squad selections despite being one of the most lethal strikers in the Premeirship.

The best reference Darren Anderton has is that recent England coaches have chosen him when he has been fit.

He was a vital part in Venables team at Euro 1996 and again at the 1998 World Cup under Glenn Hoddle.

The midfielder has always adapted brilliantly to any position forced upon him, within a formation adopted by the England coach.

Phillips is finally looking a cement a regular place in the England squad

He has been an integral part of the recent Spurs revival under Glenn Hoddle and perhaps those qualities have led current England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson into recalling "Sicknote".

With regards to Phillips, I think he has been unlucky at times when the chance has come his way

His club manager Peter Reid thinks he has an awful lot to offer - bags of talent and the right ability and temperament to be successful at international level.

Any other era in England's history and you would think he would be a certain starter if not a certain selection.

But with Michael Owen, Robbie Fowler, Emile Heskey and Andy Cole around - playing European football regularly - it is has been hard for Phillips to push his way into the elite.

Perhaps his big chance will come aganst Sweden, and if he takes it well, then maybe his dream of making World Cup 2002 will become a reality.