Team news: Wayne Rooney will return for England after serving his two-match suspension. Much has been said about the Manchester United striker’s huge role in his nation’s success and it will be interesting to see who gets dropped in favour of the automatic choice.
Another dilemma for Roy Hodgson will be the choice between James Milner and Theo Walcott. The latter was instrumental in their win against Sweden and the former is a work-horse who can provide able defensive cover in case of Glen Johnson darting forward.
It seems bleak for Ukraine though, with Andriy Shevchenko a doubt. The striker, who picked up a knee injury against Sweden must have certainly aggravated it when he played against France.
Rooney will return for England after serving his two-match suspension. AFP
Otherwise, it looks like Ukraine will probably field the same side which won against Sweden.
From the camps: Roy Hodgson, like the rest of England, thinks that the return of Rooney will be pivotal to England’s run-in: “His attitude was perfect in training sessions. He has been very lively, energetic and enthusiastic. That’s a positive. If Wayne can produce his best, then he can help us keep going even further.”
Oleg Blokhin meanwhile, is deploying his own mind-games: “There will be big problems for them but it’s not the same for us. The England team will be more nervous. We have nothing to lose. If they lose it will be unexpected.”
Did you know: A draw will be enough for England to qualify for the last eight.
Ukraine won the last competitive match against England by 1-0. England won three times before that loss.
England have never managed to beat the hosts of a European Championship.
England have the best goals to shots ratio in Euro 2012. Out of 21 shots, they have scored four goals.
But England need to be wary of Ukraine’s tackling prowess. They have made 50 tackles— the most in this tournament.
On the other hand, and mostly because of the Scott Parker’s bravery, England have made the most number of blocks in the tournament: 14.
Odds: For every pound on an England win, you will get £2.10 and a Ukraine win is worth £3.60. A draw is worth £3.40.
