England v Ghana

England take on Ghana this evening in what spectators are hoping will be an entertaining international friendly at Wembley.

Fabio Capello has been criticised by many for allowing some big name players to return to their clubs, with fans reportedly unhappy that they won’t be receiving value for money.

John Terry, Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney and Michael Dawson all started the game against Wales on Saturday, but will not play any part this evening.

Capello will argue that his main priority was getting the victory over Wales – which he did, England comfortably won 2-0 – and that there will still be a strong side out to face Ghana, despite a select few high-profile players not making it.

Besides, if Rooney or Lampard were injured during an international friendly having stayed on the pitch longer than anticipated, the criticism facing Capello would be much more significant that it is now. So, you can see why the Italian has allowed the five players to return to club duty.

The main thing on his mind now should be motivating his more inexperienced side to put on a performance against Ghana. It is a game England will be expected to win, but it will be a touch challenge for Capello’s men.

Ghana represented Africa during the World Cup last year, reaching the quarter-final stage before being knocked out via a penalty shoot out against Uruguay. It was a sickening way to depart the tournament.

It proved to the world that Ghana can compete against some of the strongest teams in the world though and they will be determined to enhance their reputation even further at Wembley this evening.

To face an England side – that will be led by Gareth Barry in Terry’s absence – at Wembley is an excellent chance to show people what they can do. They will certainly go out to win the game.

As for England, they have the pressure on them not only to win the game, but to put on an impressive and entertaining performance to keep the crowd happy.

Of course, the progression of the team should be the main priority, but after a great win against Wales, Capello and co won’t want the headlines to be negative ahead of the return of the Premier League.

Looking at the team news, the England boss has confirmed that Joe Hart, Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines, Scott Parker and Andy Carroll will start the game.

Uncapped Wolves man Matt Jarvis will look to play some part as well as England look to continue the momentum obtained from their victory over Wales at the weekend.