England vs. Ukraine
9th October, 2009
England tackles the Ukraine tomorrow in Dnipro, knowing that their place at next year’s World Cup finals in South Africa is secure.
Fabio Capello’s Three Lions, will top the group no matter what the result is on Saturday. However England’s players will take the match seriously as they are playing for their individual World Cup places. Also they shall want to maintain their perfect record in qualification to build confidence going into next year’s tournament.
The match is of paramount importance to the Ukraine as if they defeat England they will be in pole position to capture a play-off place in Group Six. Croatia is currently two points ahead of them however they have a game in hand against Andorra in the final round of matches. England will head into the match full of belief after hammering Croatia 5-1 at Wembley last month.
Capello could alter the starting line-up in order to experiment, however it is unlikely that any significant changes will occur.
Goalkeeper David James will hope to return in goal after missing the last few matches through an injury to his shoulder. Competition will be tough for him though as West Ham’s Robert Green has performed very well in his absence and has conceded only one goal in three competitive matches.
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is expected to replace Mathew Upson in the centre of defence while his colleague Michael Carrick has been recalled to the squad. Bolton Wanderers Gary Cahill could earn his first cap from the substitutes, bench.
England is 6/4 to win with Paddy Power while Ukraine is 9/5 with Canbet. The draw is 13/5 with William Hill.
By Dane
