England face Slovenia at Wembley Stadium in a UEFA Euro 2016 qualification match. Although Roy Hodgson’s men are firm favourites on paper, they could be severely tested. Here’s why.
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Wilshere’s weakness
If England have a weak point in the side, it’s the lack of a natural anchor midfielder. Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere is a fine player, but is a square peg in a round hole at the base of the Three Lions midfield.
Slovenia have some potentially dangerous runners from deep in the likes of Kevin Kampl, who has already scored nine goals for Red Bull Salzburg this season, while the creativity of Chievo star Valter Birsa will mean Wilshere will have to keep on his toes.
Smash and grab
As proved in their 1-0 victory against Switzerland last month, Slovenia are well capable of stifling the attack of (on paper) a better side with excellent defensive discipline. The late penalty from Milivoje Novakovic to secure victory made the result all the sweeter.
England may have to prepare for a frustrating game, and will need to be extremely wary on the break. Slovenia have already proved in this qualification campaign that if they get a chance they will certainly take it.
Samir Handanovic
Although Inter Milan are not currently enjoying the very best of seasons, their goalkeeper Samir Handanovic remains a special talent.
Handanovic proved instrumental in keeping Switzerland at bay in Slovenia’s biggest win of their qualification campaign so far, and England will hope he is not in similarly inspired form at Wembley Stadium.
One further note – Handanovic’s record against penalty takers is spectacular.
The 30 year-old has saved more spot kicks than any goalkeeper in Europe’s top five leagues over the last five seasons, with 13 stopped and 16 conceded from his last 29 faced.
Wayne Rooney will need to have nerves of steel if offered the chance from twelve yards.