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MOTD preview: Ukraine v England

By on September 10, 2013

England manager Roy Hodgson will be desperately wanting a win against Ukraine to all but seal The Three Lion’s qualification for next summer’s World Cup

An injury plagued England can take a huge step toward’s topping Uefa Group H if they beat an in-form Ukraine as they travel to Kiev for a crucial World Cup qualifier. Roy Hodgson’s side, who will be without Daniel Sturridge, Wayne Rooney, and the suspended Danny Welbeck, are currently sitting atop Group H, level on 15 points with Montenegro, but ahead via goal difference. Ukraine sit only one point behind The Three Lions after their 9-0 routing of San Marino over the weekend, and will be keen to top the group to qualify for next summer’s World Cup.

Mykhaylo Fomenko’s side fancy their chances against England following their 1-1 draw with Hodgson’s men in 2012, and out of their last four meetings England have one only twice while Ukraine have managed one win and a draw.  Ukraine have also been unbeaten in their last nine matches while England have managed a mere five wins from their last ten games.

England even have the tougher run in, with Hodgson’s side facing Poland and Montenegro, both of whom England have yet to beat in the qualifiers, in their final two qualifying matches.  But defeat doesn’t necissarliy mean the Three Lions won’t qualify for the World Cup, but will most likely have to settle second place playoff spot.

Although injuries to Daniel Sturridge and Wayne Rooney also hurt Hodsgon’s chances, the former Liverpool manager has sensibly brought in James Milner as a replacement.  The 66-year-old is also starting Southampton’s Rickie Lambert, who has been in impressive form for England, scoring twice and setting up two goals in only 94 minutes of playing time during England’s last two matches.  Frank Lampard will also earn his 100th England cap, with Hodgson confirming that the Chelsea midfielder will start.  “Lampard will play tomorrow night,” Hodgson said on Monday.

But even if Lampard doesn’t get a win in his 100th match for England the match is sure to be exciting, so look out for our full time report, right here on Football Every Day!

About Alex Morgan

Alex Morgan, founder of Football Every Day, lives and breaths football from the West Coast of the United States in California. Aside from founding Football Every Day in January of 2013, Alex has also launched his own journalism career and hopes to help others do the same with FBED. He covers the San Jose Earthquakes as a beat reporter for QuakesTalk.com and his work has also been featured in the BBC's Match of the Day Magazine.