STEVE McClaren last night gave a strong hint that Kieron Dyer will be in the England squad to face Spain in a friendly next week.The England boss told the EADT how impressed he has been with Dyer since his return at Newcastle from long-term injuries, and said the former Ipswich Town star was very much in his thoughts for the squad, which will be announced tomorrow afternoon.

By Derek Davis

STEVE McClaren last night gave a strong hint that Kieron Dyer will be in the England squad to face Spain in a friendly next week.

The England boss told the EADT how impressed he has been with Dyer since his return at Newcastle from long-term injuries, and said the former Ipswich Town star was very much in his thoughts for the squad, which will be announced tomorrow afternoon. McClaren said: “I have had a couple of chats with Kieron and I have been impressed with him. He seems to have matured while he has been battling back.

“In some ways the setback seems to have helped him grow up. Kieron has been in the wilderness for a few years now and had a horrendous time with injury.

“I was delighted to see him just playing for Newcastle, never mind for England.

“I have been an admirer of Kieron for a long time. He has that ingredient vital for an England player.

“He has pace and can make things happen. When you come up against organised teams at international, or any level, you need a player who can unlock the door and Kieron is that type of player.”

Darren Bent is still recovering from injury at Charlton, but McClaren insisted the former Blues striker was still very much part of his plans.

McClaren admitted he had not been aware that Ipswich would benefit to the tune of £200,000 from each of the first two competitive games Bent plays for England.

He said: “I know now but that is not a factor. Darren seems to have been around for ages and scoring goals at all levels but people forget he can still play in the U-21s.”

Danny Haynes is in the England Under-19s squad that play at Bournemouth next Tuesday, which is a 10,000 sell-out.