SVEN-GORAN Eriksson and Tord Grip have been busy men since England's last encounter.

And, after much deliberating since the 2-2 draw with Macedonia in October, when Eriksson announces his squad for this week's friendly with Australia tonight there will be a few disappointed faces.

Any young Englishman with a lot of potential who has been performing well at club level has been tipped for a call-up.

Everton wonder-kid Wayne Rooney is the name on most pundits' lips, but there are a whole host of others on the verge of being selected. There are two in this region - Newcastle's Jermaine Jenas and Middlesbrough's Jonathan Greening. Jenas has been outstanding for the Magpies and his form has been highlighted by the fact the St. James' Park outfit have hardly missed the injured Gary Speed.

The former Forest star does not turn 20 until later this month and if he does not receive the call-up tonight then there is no doubt he will in the future. Jenas has already been tipped to become England captain one day and, despite his tender age, his passing skills are exceptional.

Greening, meanwhile, will be keeping his fingers crossed that he did enough to warrant a call-up when he joined the rest of the England squad in November for a get-together. The former Manchester United man's starring performances for Boro in the early part of the season earned Eriksson's approval.

But Greening's form has dipped, along with Boro's, since his call-up and he will be lucky to stay involved. However, England's troublesome left-side means the 23-year-old could be retained.

But with Scott Parker, Frank Lampard, Sean Davis and David Thompson all battling for a place with Jenas and Greening, the competition for places is huge.

Add to that pool of players Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes, Kieron Dyer, and Owen Hargreaves and it is clear a few players will have to miss out.

Premiership bosses have been asking Eriksson to take a look at a number of their players over the past few months.

Alan Curbishley believes Parker, Richard Rufus and Paul Konchesky should receive recognition. But only Parker can really expect to be delighted come the announcement this evening.

Darius Vassell could also be brushed aside to allow Saints' in-form striker James Beattie the chance to shine.