It is ‘only’ a friendly but tonight’s international between Spain and England will be the first true test of Fabio Capello’s progress as England coach. It is the first game for the England team since their impressive 2-1 win against Germany three months ago and it will provide an ideal opportunity to judge the renewed levels of confidence that appear to exude from the squad since the Italian assumed control of the team.
Just to make it interesting, Capello will be without the services of three of his most naturally gifted players, Joe Cole, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney are all ruled out through injury. It does give the coach the chance to promote some of the talented youngsters from the fringe of the squad and those players will be looking to stake a claim for a place in the World Cup squad.
Former England football captain David Beckham looks almost certain to equal Bobby Moore’s haul of 108 caps in tonight’s game, although he may have only a bit part to play in this game. Once again Beckham has gone away and worked on his fitness in a bid to remain a contender for the England team. His loan move to AC Milan has seen the player once again enjoying football at the highest level and his inclusion is totally justified.
Equally justified is the call up to the senior squad of Aston Villa’s James Millner and West Ham’s Carlton Cole, both who have played a huge part in the England Under21 squad in recent years, both have been selected on current form, which is reassuring.
It will be Capello’s biggest test so far, Spain are currently Euro champions and are playing excellent football with total confidence. They have an almost unfair abundance of top midfield players at present, while Cesc Fabregas is injured he has yet to become an automatic choice for Spain and the fact that Everton’s Mikel Arteta doesn’t even make the squad speaks volumes of the depth of skill that they have available.
I expect the England football coach will select the very much in form Michael Carrick, to adopt the role of holding midfielder, a position that he has filled brilliantly for United all season, leaving Lampard and Barry to link up with the pacey wingers Ashley Young and Shaun Wright Phillips.
Carlton Cole looks sure to get a chance to prove himself at long last, he has been the nearly man for so long, it is great that his form with West Ham has been rewarded.
A loss will not be the end of the world against Spain, but a win would certainly send confidence soaring.
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