Hodgson: Terry is a warrior and will excel for England at Euro 2012

The newly-appointed Three Lions boss has admitted he has faith in the Chelsea talisman, and that he could prove to be an important asset to his country in Poland and Ukraine

England manager Roy Hodgson has described defender John Terry as a warrior, and admitted that he fully expects the Chelsea talisman to excel at Euro 2012.

Terry’s inclusion in England’s Euro 2012 squad has been a source of intense debate after the player’s court case for allegedly abusing Anton Ferdinand was put back until after the tournament’s conclusion.

The absence of Rio Ferdinand, the brother of the alleged victim in Terry’s racism case, is rumored to be linked to the 31-year-old’s presence in the Three Lions squad for their trip to Poland and Ukraine.

Hodgson has defended his decision to keep Terry in his 23-man list, and is certain his choice will pay off.

"We all know John's qualities,” Hodgson told Sporting Life. “We all know what a good center half he is and what a warrior he is,

“We also know he is capable of taking other players with him, not least of all his teammate Ashley Cole, with whom he is used to playing.”

England starts its Euro 2012 campaign against France on Monday. Laurent Blanc’s side is quickly becoming a hot favorite to claim Euro glory after the competition’s other favorites suffered slow starts to the championship.

"I'm just hoping John will show all the qualities I have seen from him over many years with England," Hodgson said.

"I'm convinced he is determined to do that. He feels this is a great opportunity to show the very best of what he can do."