Preview: England vs Russia

It's crunch night as England go to battle with Russia on the infamous plastic pitch of the Luzhniki Stadium. England recorded their fifth straight 3-0 victory in Euro 2008 Qualification, but Russia are the only other side to contend with as both teams battle for 2nd spot. Team Spirit - Gerrard calls on big players - Terry ruled out - Hiddink: take risks

England will miss their notable absentees Ashley Cole and John Terry, and a patched up side will travel to the Luzhniki stadium for the momentous encounter.

With Joleon Lescott expected to make his first senior start at left-back in place of Cole, it does place added strain on a defence which will miss their regulars.

Emile Heskey, so effective as Michael Owen's strike partner last month, is out with a broken metatarsal. Owen himself has been declared match-ready after recovering from stomach surgery in double-quick time. He should be partnered by Wayne Rooney.

David Beckham is still also recovering from his LA Galaxy injury that is still deemed '3 weeks from full recovery'.

McLaren is left with the same selection headache, does he play Gareth Barry or Frank Lampard? Barry, again effective against Estonia, is staking his claim for a regular starting spot next to stand in captain Steven Gerrard.

Confident McLaren

Steve McLaren still remains in confident mood: "Four or five games ago, so many people doubted we would be in this position. But I always said the last five games would be critical."

Remaining Fixtures

Saturday, 13 October

Croatia v Israel

England v Estonia

Wednesday, 17 October

FYR Macedonia v Andorra

Russia v England

Saturday, 17 November

Andorra v Estonia

FYR Macedonia v Croatia

Israel v Russia

Wednesday, 21 November

Andorra v Russia

England v Croatia

Israel v FYR Macedonia

Eyefootball International Predictor

Russia 0-1 England

It'll be from Russia with Love for the England side as they battle against a very attack minded Russian side to come home with a 1-0 victory. This looks a tough one for England, but team spirit should shine through on the plastic turf and see England nearer to the Euro 2008 finals.