Spain is the ultimate test, says Capello
ENGLAND manager Fabio Capello admits the prospect of facing World Cup holders Spain has been rendered an even more daunting prospect than normal as a result of the absences of a clutch of key players.
The Italian has opted to leave out Wayne Rooney, suspended for the first three games of next summer’s European Championships, while Steven Gerrard and Ashley Young are injured.
“We’re playing Spain without any players,” he said ahead of Saturday’s friendly. “We’re missing Rooney, Gerrard, Terry. We will do our best.
“Playing Spain at Wembley is a tough test. I’m going to give a run out to new and young players to see their potential. We’re going to be under lots of pressure from our fans.”
Rooney’s omission is likely to allow Darren Bent an opportunity to improve on his recent record of four goals in his last five international appearances.
The Aston Villa striker said: “I can’t count my chickens but if I keep playing well, and the ball keeps flying in the net, then that’s all I can do.”