Kitson for England!

DAVE KITSON will be the shock new name in Fabio Capello's first England squad.

The Reading striker has twice been watched by the Italian, who is said to be impressed with his aggressive, direct style.

Capello names his squad next Saturday for the game against Switzerland on Wednesday weekand has tough choices to make upfront.

Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen-despite his rustiness-are automatic choices but doubts hover over the rest of the contenders.

Peter Crouch hardly gets a start under Rafa Benitez, Dean Ashton still looks some way short of optimum match fitness, Jermain Defoe is another operating mainly from the bench and Andy Johnson has yet to rediscover the regular scoring touch.

Kitson, 28, is the leading English scorer in the Premier League with eight goals this season but has never previously been close to an England call-up.

One of Capello's main selection issues is whether to give David Beckham his 100th cap.

While it looks likely, one source close to Capello made it clear that it will not be automatic.

He said: "Fabio will only pick David if he thinks it is for the good of the squad and the team. Make no mistake, there will be no sentiment involved."

But Capello's biggest call will be the captaincy.

With John Terry not likely to be fit for the Switzerland game, Capello might not announce a permament skipper.

And the Italian has been made aware of the impirtance of his decision by FA chiefs, who have indicated to him that the new skipper has responsibilities on AND off the pitch.

"The England captain's job is an important position in English sporting life and English social life," chief executive Brian Barwick tells the News of the World today.

Beckham his 100th cap. While it looks likely, a source close to Capello made it clear that it will not be automatic.

He said: "Fabio will only pick David if he thinks it's for the good of the team.

"Make no mistake, there will be no sentiment involved."

But Capello's biggest early decision will be over the captaincy.

With John Terry not likely to be fit for the Swiss clash, Capello might not announce a permanent skipper.

http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/2701_kitson.shtml

He's finally getting the recognition he deserves. Top English goalscorer in the EPL this season, I definitely think he has what it takes. Capello will name his squad for the friendly with Switzerland, on Saturday so hopefully he performs well this week.