Mancienne’s joy at England call
LISA SMITH
Staff Writer
Wolves star Michael Mancienne was thrilled to be preparing to fly out to Germany with Fabio Capello’s senior England squad today after a last-gasp promotion from the Under 21s.
The dreadlocked defender – who is currently wowing crowds with his loan performances at centre-half for Mick McCarthy’s men – could now replace one of his Chelsea team-mates and personal heroes, John Terry, who limped off in Chelsea’s annihilation of West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.
Mancienne admits he was the last to know that he had impressed Capello as he once again turned in a sterling performance to steer Wolves to a 2-1 victory over Southampton on Saturday to keep them on the top of the Coca-Cola Championship table.
He said: “I’m thrilled. I didn’t know anything after the game. But I’m really excited at the prospect, I feel it’s a great achievement. The move to Wolves, and the fact they like to play good football, and are top of the Championship, has definitely helped.
“When I was at Chelsea I used to speak to some of the first team players on the training ground, but not too often. I would love it if I have the chance to play next to John Terry, but would I try to give him any advice – no way!
“I was on the subs’ bench for Chelsea a few times, but I haven’t played a first team game for them yet. Long-term I would like to go back there, because I have been with the club since I was eight.
“But I am at Wolves until the end of December, and I don’t know if the loan deal will be extended. If I do leave, then I know they will be in very good shape and can go on and win the Championship title. They have a good squad of players, capable of doing it.”
The 20-year-old added: “It’s a good feeling to be top of the table, and playing good football. These are exciting times because there is a lot going on. I would like to think that one day I can play regular Premier League football, but being at Wolves is a great stepping stone.
“We are buzzing at the moment, and we needed these three points, because we cannot afford to drop any. We could have had another couple of goals, but their keeper pulled off some good saves.
“But our keeper Carl Ikeme also kept us in it when Saints were pressing. If we can keep grinding out these types of results then we must have a great chance of staying right up there.”
