England .vs. France

[Rabbits XI]

England play France in a friendly next week at Wembley. With no EURO 2012 qualifiers for several more months, what benefit is there in having such a game?

Is it just an opportunity for players to earn caps? Can either manager really hope to put into practice any tactical plans or is it just a waste of time? Could players not be better off having a break? - (So they can count their pennies!!!)...

I suppose, at least we are playing France, we can look on the bright side... At least, (according to FIFA rankings), we are better than them!!!

[Geoff]

Much better than them!

You'll get the usual half dozen drop outs due to some fake injury. However I do believe it's important that our national side get together as often as possible. Can't blood everyone in competitve and/or important matches.

[Rabbits XI]

And it's a very interesting squad that has been named too!

I've got to say that unless Fabio is planning on playing some of the surprises, it would seem strange that he would select them in the squad in the first place.

I would like to see Carroll and Henderson getting some playing time. Wilshere too needs a good amount of time too so that we can see how he plays and fits in. Micah Richards is back in the squad (through default?), should probably get 90mins in the right-back slot although when fit Glen Johnson would still appear to be the number one choice. What about Nedum Onuoha? - What a fantastic goal on Sunday, he's been playing well, Sunderland have been playing well. Would have been justified in a call-up!

So, what team do we expect/hope to see tomorrow night?

[Geoff]

An England C team by the looks of it. I can't moan I did say best to test when it isn't important. And as envisaged the usual amount of drop outs from those picked with miracle injuries. I doubt I'll be interested enough to watch it tonight.

[SussexMan84]

Can either manager really hope to put into practice any tactical plans or is it just a waste of time? Could players not be better off having a break?

It's a waste of time, mate. A good way to wear someone out or get them hurt. But it's a "fun rivalry," like when the military plays each other. Nevermind that it's a bleeding waste of energy.

[footballtips]

this is a funny rivalry but it seems so interesting especially if they give excitement to the people whom follow their games.