I’d be amazed if Kane’s not on the scoresheet today
Wales have the best player on the pitch in Gareth Bale and their tails are up after an excellent win over slovakia. While england should still have the edge this afternoon in lens, they will need to win these four key battles to ensure victory.
ERIC DIER v AARON RAMSEY AND GARETH BALE
HE’S been exceptional all season but this will be a massive test for Dier as Wales’ two best players will be floating in and around his area. Both Bale and Ramsey like to pick the ball up in deep areas and, with England’s defence not the greatest, the Tottenham midfielder’s role will be vital in shielding the back four. I’m particularly looking forward to the north London battle between Dier and Ramsey. The Arsenal man has tremendous fitness, will run all day and can be so dangerous with his late runs into the penalty box.
HARRY KANE v ASHLEY WILLIAMS
PEOPLE said Kane looked tired and leggy against Russia but I couldn’t disagree more. It just wasn’t his night on Saturday and I’d be amazed if he’s not on the scoresheet this afternoon. He will feel that this is his chance to shine, although he will need support from midfield runners such as Dele Alli as he could be isolated up against a back three. He will face a formidable opponent in Williams — the Wales captain is an intelligent defender and will take confidence from the fact he prevented Kane from scoring against Swansea last season.
RAHEEM STERLING v CHRIS GUNTER
THIS is Sterling’s biggest game in an England shirt — you feel he needs an outstanding performance to rediscover his confidence and stay in this team. Gunter, at right wing-back, should suit him. The Reading man is what I would call an upright defender — someone who is good in straight lines yet not necessarily mobile and Sterling (above) will feel he can beat him in one-on-one situations. With Wales playing with three at the back, Sterling will also need to make runs in behind to drag the centre-backs all over the pitch.
JOE LEDLEY v WAYNE ROONEY
JONNY WILLIAMS is a very technical player and was superb against Slovakia, but Chris Coleman could try to match England’s physicality by bringing in Ledley (above). The priority for the Crystal Palace midfielder will be to stop Rooney who, if given the time he had against Russia, can spread the ball around and dictate play. Coleman will be telling Ledley to get on Rooney’s toes, hurry him up and force him to play at a pace where he is not comfortable.