England face a rigorous examination when they tackle European champions Spain on Wednesday.
Euro 2008 winners host Capello's charges in Seville
England face a rigorous examination when they tackle European champions Spain in an international friendly on Wednesday evening.
Head coach Fabio Capello has done much to restore pride to the England fold, with the country enjoying a hugely successful 2008 under the Italian.
Last year, the former Real Madrid boss oversaw eight victories from 10 outings, including four straight successes in their opening 2010 World Cup qualifiers.
However, Spain promise to be the fiercest test yet for Capello, with the Euro 2008 winners currently Fifa's No.1 ranked nation, and unbeaten in a staggering 28 matches.
La Furia Roja have run out 1-0 victors in their previous two meetings with England, while the duo's last encounter on Spanish soil in 2004 was marred by racist chanting from the home support.
Observers, though, will be hopeful this time around, at Sevilla's Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium, the focus will be solely on football in what promises to be an intriguing match-up.
108 caps
The encounter could mark a memorable achievement for on-loan AC Milan midfielder David Beckham, who needs one more cap to equal Bobby Moore's record of 108 for an outfield player.
At the opposite end of the caps spectrum, Aston Villa's James Milner, so impressive for his club this term, is targeting his first senior appearance, as is West Ham United striker Carlton Cole.
However, Luke Young, one of six Villa players called up by Capello, has been forced to withdraw from the squad after suffering a toe injury.
Steven Gerrard misses out with a torn hamstring, meaning Gareth Barry is likely to partner Frank Lampard in the heart of midfield.
With Wayne Rooney also unfit, pacey striker Gabriel Agbonlahor could be set for a role alongside Villa team-mate Emile Heskey.
Threat
For Spain, head coach Vicente del Bosque has uncapped Barcelona pair Gerard Pique and Sergio Busquets at his disposal, but experienced centre-back Carles Puyol misses out with a leg complaint.
Del Bosque has also called up five Liverpool players for the match, with goalkeeper Jose Reina, full-back Alvaro Arbeloa, midfielders Albert Riera and Xabi Alonso, and striker Fernando Torres all included.
Star Reds attacker Torres could be set to form a deadly strike partnership with Valencia's David Villa, with the pair particularly effective alongside one another at Euro 2008.
England must also be at their best in midfield if they are to win a potentially match-defining battle, with Spain enforcer Marcos Senna the perfect foil for the technically gifted Xavi.
