England

Michael Turner A Future England Regular - Sunderland Manager Steve Bruce

Black Cats boss predicts defender call-up

Nov 15, 2009 5:53:18 PM

CC: Gabriel Agbonlahor - Michael Turner, Sunderland - Aston Villa (Getty Images)

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CC: Gabriel Agbonlahor - Michael Turner, Sunderland - Aston Villa (Getty Images)

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By Jamie Dunn

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce believes defender Michael Turner could assert himself on the international scene for England in the near future.

The centre-back moved to the Stadium of Light from Hull City in the summer as Bruce made him one of his first recruits on Wearside.

The former Wigan Athletic boss is now confident Turner would grab the opportunity to represent his country with both hands.

"Michael is one of the old-fashioned types," Bruce said, according to skysports.com.

"He enjoys defending, makes blocks when he has to and is not afraid to put his head in where it hurts.

"But he's also a lot better on the ball then people give him credit for - and is always a threat at set-pieces down the other end too.

"He is a very good player - and I wouldn't be surprised if he receives recognition with England soon.

"He's been close to a call-up before and I'm sure if he gets a chance, he's one of those who could be in for a long, long time."

England boast a wealth of options in the central defensive position, with Rio Ferdinand, John Terry, Matthew Upson, Joleon Lescott and Gary Cahill, amongst others, all vying for a World Cup squad place.