It will come as no surprise to anyone that England sit top of their Euro 2016 qualification group, taking nine points from their first three games. Qualification was never going to be in doubt with the expansion of the competition, and with the kind group they were drawn in, but it’s been a solid enough start, without being spectacular. They have yet to concede a goal against Switzerland, San Marino or Estonia but they have not hit the heights that some would expect. Their most impressive performance to date was the 2-0 win in Switzerland, which is likely to be their most testing fixture of this group.
Slovenia would have fancied their chances of challenging for the second automatic qualification spot when they draw was made and that is likely to be even more the case following wins over Lithuania and Switzerland, who are also in the mix. They did lose their first game in the group – away to Estonia, but they have recovered well and whilst the match at Wembley will be their hardest match thus far, they can approach it with very little to lose. Before their 2-0 success in Lithuania, they hadn’t scored a goal in their last five away games, let alone a goal, so there’s little expected of them on Saturday.
Wayne Rooney will earn his 100th cap for England on Saturday as the England captain joins an illustrious few. He’s not always produced his best form for his country, certainly in recent times, but he remains one of their most important players and Roy Hodgson will be hoping that he the added responsibility of being made skipper will bring about some improved performances. He would love to mark the occasion with what would be his 44th goal.
The Slovenians are unlikely to do anything other than sit back and try to soak up the pressure, limiting space for England’s attackers. They have plenty of experience in the squad and this should ensure that they are disciplined and organised. The key, of course, is keeping it goalless for the first 20 minutes which would allow them to settle into the match. An early goal would change the game entirely so expect a very compact away side from the outset.
This match shouldn’t prove too much trouble for England but they still have to win the game and the fans will expect a better performance than their last couple of home games. The prohibitive odds of a home win don’t do much for me but they look value to get the three points and keep a clean sheet in the process.
England to win to nil 20/23 @ Boylesports
