Charlie Austin: Is it time England called on QPR striker? please log in to view this image Stating his case The stats stack up for Austin - and not just because he stands third behind Costa and Aguero. In 20 league games this season he has scored 13 times. West Bromwich Albion's Saido Berahino, 21, is one of the most coveted strikers in this January transfer window and has already made the England squad. The £20m-rated man has scored nine goals in 21 games. Another example of Austin's excellence - all achieved while playing in a side fighting for Premier League survival - can be seen when his record is set alongside Wilfried Bony, who has just joined Manchester City from Swansea City for an initial £25m. No-one can doubt Bony's pedigree, yet he has managed nine goals in 20 games. The stats also suggest Austin will hit the target when he gets his chances - he has a 67% shooting accuracy, only bettered by Costa (72%) and equalled by Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez. please log in to view this image The three ages of Austin. Is an England shirt the next for him to add to his collection? http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/30865784
Not enough speed or skillful enough to be an international for England - obviously finds it difficult to play as a lone striker as well. No faulting his commitment and desire to maximize his talent which may well be reaching its plateau. There's also no doubting he has been brilliant for us - well worth the money.
100% spot on. I hope he doesn't believe some of the hype, just keeps his head down and gets on with it.
I don't know what it takes to be considered good enough to be an England striker but judging by some who have been selected I wouldn't think he would be deemed not worthy to rub shoulders with some of them. Surely the main yardstick is goals per game, isn't that what strikers are for? Personally I hope he isn't selected, I want him to keep his concentration focuses on finding the net for Rangers and no one else no matter what side of the plateau he is on.
England have been using Lambert and have picked Carroll in the past, neither of whom are quick or particularly skilful. I agree that Austin should not be considered good enough at this stage, but if those two get a go, then maybe he should. He has not necessarily stopped improving, either. Having come from non-league, he could be a late developer, as was Sir Les.
Hopefully not this season, doesn't need the distraction. If he knocks in another 15 goals this season and say 30 next season then maybe give him a go......
Indeed. Excellent Championship, lower Premier League striker. Ian Wright and Les Ferdinand came from the lower leagues too but had pace unlike Austin. Different class. Sturridge and Welbeck are way ahead and Carroll for all his faults has a physical presence at set pieces that Austin can't match, We need him but I don't rate him.
