England face big test against Spain
Marco Iacobucci EPP Shutterstock.com
England host Spain at Wembley on Tuesday night in a friendly game that promises to be an interesting encounter.
England are expected to appoint interim boss Gareth Southgate on a permanent basis after the game. The result of this game is unlikely to have an effect on the FA’s decision on Southgate though.
That may be a good job because even in a friendly Spain will be difficult opposition. England defeated Scotland 3-0 last time out. However, the Three Lions gave away possession too easily and allowed the visitors a number of attempts on goal.
If Spain are given the same number of attempts they are likely to make them count. Southgate is unbeaten in his three games as interim England boss so far, with two wins and a draw. However, performances have been far from convincing.
England have a poor recent record against the visitors, too, losing four of the last five meetings and failing to score in all four defeats. England’s last win over Spain came back in November 2011 in a friendly game.
One positive for England is the fact they will not be facing Chelsea’s in-form striker Diego Costa. The Brazil-born star has returned to his club due to injury. England boss Southgate could rotate his squad.
England captain Wayne Rooney and full-back Ryan Bertrand both missed training on Monday and could be doubtful for the difficult clash.
The game will give Gareth Southgate a chance to prove that he has the tactical acumen to be appointed on a full-time basis, with his four-game trial period up following the Spain clash.
In truth, whoever was in charge of England would have had a difficult task in engineering a victory over Spain, so England’s rookie boss may just have his work cut out to record a victory over La Roja.
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