England manager Roy Hodgson has hinted that his preferred centre-back pairing at Euro2016 would be that of Gary Cahill and Chris Smalling.

Hodgson admits that Everton centre-back John Stones need more experience on the international stage before he could cement his place in the Three Lions' starting eleven.

Ahead of Friday's friendly with Australia, Hodgson said: "John Stones needs games more than Gary Cahill at the moment.

"We wanted to make sure that we gave ourselves a clearer picture as possible with regard to the squad we want to take to France.

"He certainly hasn't played as many games for England as Gary has done so his England experience is important."