I decided against producing ‘my XI’ thoughts on these two England matches, against Israel (3-0) and Russia tomorrow as due to injuries and suspension the team pretty. Plus Crouch can be quite effective coming off the bench so will be a useful weapon. The big test for McClaren will be the next international and who to choose with hopefully the big guns (Rooney, Lampard, Lennon, Hargreeves, Neville, Terry etc.) coming back in contention for selection.

Score prediction: England 2 – 0 Russia

As it’s the friendly between England and Germany tonight, I thought I’d have a go at selecting my England eleven from McClaren’s squad (not easy with some of the muppets he’s selected). No Rooney, Gary Neville, Lennon, Gerrard, or Hargreeves. Plus Owen and Beckham are severely lacking in match practice.

I’ve chosen a 4 – 5 -1 formation due to the lack of options up front (as Johnson is doubtful). Crouch as the lone striker, as much as I rate Defoe, Spurs have really destroyed his confidence, so it’s the bench for him. I’ll have Wright-Philips on the right, after his promising start to the season with Chelsea, Joe Cole on the left and Lampard and Carrick in the middle. Lampard supporting Crouch as much as possible and Carrick supplying the passes. I’d pick Barry as the holding midfielder, as Hargreeves is injured yet again. In defence I’ve settled with (from right to left) Richards, Ferdinand, Terry and Ashley Cole, with Robinson in goal. Due to absentees, Lampard, Wright-Phillips and Barry can be thankful for their places.

A couple of the papers are claiming England will start with Smith and Owen upfront. Although I beleive when on form and match fit both are quality scorers, I don’t feel they are ready for it this early in the season.

Score prediction: England 2 -1 Germany