LEIGHTON BAINES is poised to make his England debut this evening – although Fabio Capello kept everyone guessing yesterday.
The Everton defender is expected to be given the nod at left-back ahead of Aston Villa’s Stephen Warnock for the friendly against Egypt at Wembley.
Even if Baines only makes the bench, he is certain to be given a run-out with England coach Capello able to make six substitutions tonight.
Baines is keen to impress with a left-back berth at the World Cup likely to be up for grabs given Wayne Bridge has retired from international football and Ashley Cole is facing a fight to regain his fitness after breaking his ankle at Goodison last month.
While Manchester United defender Wes Brown is the only fit player available to wear the number two shirt, Capello yesterday revealed he is yet to choose between Baines and Warnock on the other flank.
When asked if he had picked who will replace Cole, Capello said: “There are two choices at left-back, but only one at right-back – so Wes Brown will start!”
However, Baines subsequently lined up in training as part of what is considered the likely starting line-up for England’s final friendly before Capello names his preliminary squad for the World Cup finals in South Africa.
