Austria v England Betting and Preview
16th November, 2007
Austria v England Ernst Happel Stadion, Vienna Friday, 16 November Kick-off: 2000 GMT Live coverage: Sky Sports 1, BBC Radio 5 Live & BBC Sport website Highlights: BBC THREE (2230 GMT) & BBC TWO (0045 GMT)
Under-fire Steve McLaren will field his strongest squad against Austria this evening, hoping to get a positive result that will give the team a boost ahead of their (potentially) cruicial qualifier against Croatia in midweek. McLaren has recalled David Beckham after four games out with a knee injury, winning his 98th cap for the international team. Frank Lampard is confirmed as replacing Gareth Barry in midfield, and goalkeeper Scott Carson will win his first cap, forcing Paul Robinson out of the team.
Defensive changes are necessary due to injuries to centre-backs John Terry and Rio Ferdinand. Joleon Lescott and Micah Richards will both move to centre-back, with Wayne Bridge rejoining the squad at left back. Steven Gerrad will take the captains armband in Terry’s absence. Star striker Wayne Rooney and midfielder Owen Hargreaves are also both out through injury, leaving Peter Crouch and Michael Owen partnered up front.
England’s Euro 2008 fate could be decided on Saturday if Russia beat Israel and Croatia avoid defeat against Macedonia on Saturday. England now find themselves 7/4 to qualify for the Euro 2008 finals. For tonight’s game, England are 8/11 to win, and Austria are 7/2. If England win the game from behind, Boylesports will refund ALL losing single bets on this match. England are a huge 17/2 to win from behind and 7/2 to win both halves, both with Paddy Power.
