Photo: Wembley National Stadium Ltd
England is set to face the Republic of Ireland at Wembley before travelling to Rio to play Brazil in an international friendly on Sunday, June 2nd.
England will play the Republic of Ireland in an international friendly on May 29th at Wembley Stadium. It is the first time that the Republic of Ireland will play in Wembley since 1991. Manager Roy Hodgson will use the match which is part of the Football Association’s 150th anniversary celebrations, to prepare for the World Cup Qualifiers ahead. England is currently five points behind Group H leaders Montenegro.
Ashley Cole will captain England on Wednesday against Ireland as he won his 102 cap for England. Cole is only the 7th player to reach over 100 caps and enters a circle of elite players such as Peter Shilton (125 caps), David Beckham (115 caps), Bobby Moore (108 caps), Bobby Charlton (106 caps) and Billy Wright (105 caps).
England Manager Hodgson said: “He has been a fantastic servant, not just for Arsenal and Chelsea but for England as well.” Frank Lampard also commented and said: “The way he has performed, he has been the most consistent left-back in world football. The gesture is very much deserved and I am very happy for him.”
England also faces some injury issues as a number of players such as Steven Gerrard (shoulder), Andy Carroll (heel), Jack Wilshere (ankle), Tom Cleverley (calf) and Kyle Walker will be missing the match.
Hodges also urged supporters to avoid religious or political chants. Those overshadowed the match 18 years ago where the match was abandoned after only 27 minutes.
