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Inverness boss Butcher backs Celtic's Forster for England

Rangers great Terry Butcher is of the belief that Fraser Forster can force his way into the England national team despite playing his club football with Celtic.

The Inverness boss made a majority of his 77 appearances for England whilst playing in Scotland with 'Gers and sees no reason why Forster cannot challenge Three Lions number one Joe Hart in Roy Hodgson's squad just because he plays north of the border.

"There are obviously still question marks in Roy's mind about Fraser, but that probably owes more to his relative youth and inexperience," said Butcher.

"At 25, he is still young for an international goalkeeper. He's in the squad and they will assess him there. To be in the squad in itself is an achievement.

"If called upon, you have to take your chance. Against Barcelona, Fraser was excellent. He couldn't keep Caley Thistle's two goals out, mind you.

"He is a very good keeper. Joe Hart's the man in possession although he's not having the best spell right now. But he still has a good history with England and has done well for his country.

"I wouldn't harbour doubts about Fraser, I'd look at some of the saves he makes and what he brings to the side.

"He has youth on his side and there are English and European clubs who would love to take him off Celtic's hands. He has something, without a doubt.

"He's a talent and a big boy and he's still young as keepers don't start hitting their peak until their late 20s or 30."

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Andrew Slevison
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