London: England's friendly at Wembley on Wednesday appears an exciting prospect since Fabio Capello's side, sixth in the world, meet Holland, who are second in Fifa's ratings.
But the game has genuine importance for the hosts because of the events that have preceded it and fixtures still to come. Qualification for Euro 2012 is no longer to be taken for granted following the 2-2 draw at home to Switzerland in June. England top group G only on goal difference.
Given the need for useful preparation, Capello will regret that he has to scramble for players at this time of the year. Some, including Steven Gerrard and Michael Carrick, have been ruled out already, with others liable to withdraw after the programme of friendlies over the weekend. Jack Wilshere is unavailable since he is not fully fit and Theo Walcott, for the same reason, cannot be considered for the party that will be announced on Saturday evening.
Inevitable withdrawals
Capello seems to have a reasonably solid spine to the team, with Joe Hart in goal, John Terry and Rio Ferdinand at centre-back, Gareth Barry in midfield and Wayne Rooney as a striker. The inevitable withdrawals might lead to fringe players such as Phil Jones, the teenage Manchester United defender bought from Blackburn Rovers.
No matter how well newcomers may do, this is not the moment when Capello would wish to carry out auditions. The priority, in his last season as England manager, is to reach the Euro 2012 finals and then atone for the embarrassment at last year's World Cup. Holland present a real test, given that they top group E of the European Championship qualifier, with full points taken and 21 goals scored in the six games.
Among the more renowned nations, England alone seem to find the path to Euro 2012 exacting. Friendlies often come as a disappointment, but at the beginning of a new season Capello must hope that the men he picks are fit.
— The Guardian News & Media Ltd