Montenegro vs England: Injury worries continue for Fabio Capello
Published:England boss Fabio Capello is rapidly running out of midfield options ahead of their Euro 2012 qualifier in Montenegro on Friday.
England only need a point to secure progression to Euro 2012 but Jack Wilshere, Tom Cleverley and Tom Huddlestone are all out for the clash, while Michael Carrick and James Milner are both struggling for fitness.
Capello only has Scott Parker, Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry of his experienced players to call upon.
He has named Steven Gerrard in his provisional squad, but the player and Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish feel he is not ready for international football after only just returning from a long-term groin injury.
Capello also has problems up front with Wayne Rooney and Darren Bent both doubtful.
However, he can call upon the fully-fit and in-form Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck.
Welbeck only has ten minutes of international football under his belt – he came on as a substitute in a friendly against Ghana – but feels he can cope with the pressure out in Montenegro.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, he said: “I’m comfortable in my own ability and when I’m on the pitch I always feel at home.
“So there is no reason why I wouldn’t feel like that for England. It doesn’t matter what line I’m leading. I’ve only played one game for England but have never been overawed by an occasion.”
England head into the game as 8/11 favourites to pick up all three points, while Montenegro can be backed at 7/2 to get the win.
A more tempting bet though may be to back the draw – which is all England need to progress – at 21/10.
