World Cup Qualification Europe - Slovakia vs England

World Cup Qualification Europe - Slovakia vs England

September 04, 2016 18:00pm - Stadion Antona Malatinskeho

World Cup Qualification - Group F

Sam Allardyce will take charge of England in a competitive match for the first time on Sunday when the Three Lions travel to Slovakia for their opening Group F game.

England expected to progress comfortably from Group F

Sam Allardyce could not have hoped for an easier World Cup qualifying group in which to make his mark as the new Head Coach of the England national team. Qualifying for major tournaments has not been a problem for England bosses in recent years and this campaign should be no exception. If Big Sam cannot guide his men to a comfortable group win against the likes of Lithuania, Malta, Slovakia, Slovenia and Scotland, then serious questions will be asked about his suitability for the role.

The former West Ham boss announced his first squad last week and there were very few surprises amongst his selections. Only Ross Barkley was left out, while Michael Antonio was the sole new face to appear on the squad list. In another uninspiring move, Allardyce announced that Manchester United star Wayne Rooney will continue as captain for the foreseeable future.

The first game will be perhaps the toughest of the whole schedule for England as they travel away to Slovakia to face one of their recent Euro 2016 group opponents. On that occasion, the teams played out a 0-0 draw as both nations progressed to the knockout stages of Europe`s elite tournament.

Recent form (All competitions)

Slovakia: LDWLD

England: LDWDW

Betting odds and tips

Slovakia gave England a run for their money in France and will fancy their chances on home soil. They have lost just one of their last 14 at home in all competitions and that run included a win over Spain.

Sam Allardyce will not want to get his international career off to a losing start so may take a cautious approach to this game.

Back the Draw at 11/5 with Bet365

By Neil Morris

Go To bet365

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