Newcastle striker Andy Carroll to start for England against France

Andy Carroll will start for England in tonight's friendly against France at Wembley after passing a late fitness test. Newcastle had earlier asked that their striker not be included by Fabio Capello in order to protect a groin injury sustained last weekend against Fulham, but the England manager has deemed that the 21-year-old is fit enough to win his first cap. Carroll will start up front with Steven Gerrard playing just behind, while Sunderland midfielder Jordan Henderson also makes his debut. There is also a first start for Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs. England starting XI: Foster; Jagielka, Ferdinand, Lescott, Gibbs; Walcott, Henderson, Barry, Milner; Gerrard; Carroll.