Owen expected to miss out
06 Feb 2008 - 07:26:34
Fabio Capello is expected to leave Michael Owen out of his first England starting line-up against Switzerland on Wednesday.
The hard-line Italian coach is set to name Wayne Rooney as a lone striker supported by Joe Cole as he begins his tenure with a new-look formation in the friendly at Wembley.
The Newcastle United striker has only just returned to full fitness following a series of injury problems.
Capello is also set to hand starts to David Bentley and Ashley Young is a youthful midfield alongside Owen Hargreaves and captain Steven Gerrard, while Matthew Upson will partner Rio Ferdinand at the heart of defence.
Veteran keeper David James is also set to receive the nod in the battle for the number one jersey.
Meanwhile, Capello has urged caution among expectant England supporters ahead of his first match in charge.
"I'm not a Messiah, I'm just someone who tries to reap results through hard work," he claimed.
"What I'll try to pass on to the team is a winning mentality and being confident in their own abilities.
"I can't perform miracles in three days. The important thing is to create a good group."