England unchanged for World Cup after Champions Trophy bronze

ENGLAND head coach Danny Kerry has named an unchanged squad for the forthcoming World Cup in Argentina with one eye already on the London 2012 Olympics.

THINKING BIG: Danny Kerry names an unchanged squad for the World Cup after seeing his side collect an impressive bronze medal at the Champions Trophy (Getty Images)

Kerry has selected the same 18 players that helped England to an impressive bronze medal at the Champions Trophy in Nottingham last month for the trip to Rosario.

That medal represented a significant breakthrough for England, who beat eventual winners Argentina, Olympic silver medallist China as well as Germany en route to third place.

And Kerry is convinced the trip to South America will provide the next stepping stone towards the London 2012 podium.

"The squad selected represents many months of training and matches," said Kerry. "Individuals' performances at the Champions Trophy have been a factor but the bulk of the work was done many months prior to that tournament. 

"With 13 of the squad under the age of 25 there is a good cohort there with the potential to see at least another World Cup in 2014. 

"Equally, those with Olympic and World Cup experience already will prove invaluable as we make our way through the rigours of seven matches in 11 days.

"The World Cup in Rosario will, I believe, be a real highlight in all our hockey careers. 

"The passion and enthusiasm of the crowds in Argentina is a sight to behold and we all look forward to the fervour of the event. 

"I am sure this will prove invaluable experience to those striving for a place in the Great Britain team for the London 2012 Olympic Games."