Cole included as Hodgson rings changes

Ashley Cole has been handed his 99th England cap for Tuesday night's World Cup qualifier against Poland in Warsaw.

As expected, manager Roy Hodgson made sweeping changes to his starting line-up, with six of the side that beat San Marino last Friday losing their places, including two-goal Danny Welbeck.

Cole's return was significant because it was the first time he had been chosen since the Twitter storm erupted 11 days ago that led to the Chelsea man being charged with misconduct and forced him to apologise to Football Association chairman David Bernstein.

The 31-year-old is part of a much-changed defence, with Glen Johnson returning from suspension and Joleon Lescott chosen to partner former Everton team-mate Phil Jagielka in central defence.

Skipper Steven Gerrard is also back after serving a one-match ban, and he too is making his 99th England appearance.

Jermain Defoe has edged out Welbeck for the right to partner Wayne Rooney, having done so well in the striking role during the first two games of England's World Cup qualification campaign.

Although Hodgson has opted for the added insurance of James Milner on the right after selecting Michael Carrick to partner Gerrard in central midfield, Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley retains his ever-present record this term, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain the man to stand down.