Following a humbling 2-1 defeat to Greece, Lee Carsley's England side find themselves under significant pressure to deliver a response on Sunday as they travel to Helsinki for a crucial UEFA Nations League clash against Finland.
The Three Lions were left stunned by the 2004 European Champions on Thursday evening on an emotional night at Wembley, as both sides paid tribute to the late George Baldock. A resolute Greek side was able to expose England's defensive frailties and handed the Three Lions their first competitive home defeat in four years - something Carsley and his team will be looking to put right in Helsinki.
The defeat dealt a significant blow to Lee Carsley’s prospects of succeeding Gareth Southgate as England boss on a permanent basis, following a promising start last month with back-to-back convincing wins. It also marked a setback in England’s quest to secure promotion back to the top tier of the Nations League, as they now sit three points behind unbeaten Greece in Group B2.
England will be eager to put in a statement performance against an out-of-form Finland side, who were beaten 2-0 at Wembley in September, courtesy of a Harry Kane brace on his 100th senior England appearance.
Finland also suffered a 2-1 defeat on Thursday evening, after they blew an early lead against the Republic of Ireland. With the Finns sitting rock bottom and yet to earn a single point in the group, both sides are in desperate need of a result, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter in the Finnish capital as both sides look to turn their fortunes around.
-
Team News
Finland emerged from their narrow defeat to the Republic of Ireland unscathed on the injury front, though Sparta Prague midfielder Kaan Kairinen had already pulled out of the squad due to injury before this month's fixtures kicked off.
Former Norwich City talisman Teemu Pukki could return up front for Markku Kanerva's side after having to settle for a place on the bench in midweek.
England will be hopeful of having Harry Kane back available for the clash against Finland after he missed the defeat to Greece due to a minor injury picked up while playing for Bayern Munich last weekend.
If the England captain is not passed fit to start the game, Carsley is likely to consider handing Ollie Watkins or Dominic Solanke a start up front to spearhead the attack.
The Three Lions could also have Jack Grealish available again after he missed the Greece game due to a knock. However, Carsley's side will be without Bukayo Saka, after the Arsenal winger withdrew from the squad having limped off with an apparent hamstring injury early in the second half against Greece.
England will also be without Curtis Jones who was added to the squad earlier this week but has had to withdraw due to a personal commitment.
-
Likely lineups
Hradecky; Stahl, Hoskonen, Ivanov, Galvez; Walta, Schuller; Lod, Kamara, Keskinen; Pohjanpalo.
Pickford; Walker, Guehi, Stones, Colwill; Rice; Madueke, Gallagher, Bellingham, Palmer; Watkins.
-
Key Players
Finland - Lukas Hradecky
Lukas Hradecky has been one of Finland's standout players in recent years. A stellar performance from the Finland captain will be essential if the Finns hope to thwart England's attacking threats.
Renowned for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping ability, Hradecky is likely to face a barrage of attacks from England's potent attacking line. If he can keep England at bay with crucial saves and command his area effectively, he could be the difference-maker that allows Finland to secure a vital result.
Hradecky's experience of playing in high-pressure games is also likely to be of great benefit to his team in such a huge match for his country, having played for and captained Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
England - Cole Palmer
Following Bukayo Saka's withdrawal from the England squad through injury and with Harry Kane potentially still not fully fit, Cole Palmer has a golden opportunity to step up and be the key player for England against Finland.
After a fantastic start to the season with Chelsea in the Premier League, Palmer will be looking to translate his excellent club form into an England shirt. The 22-year-old has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League this season but is yet to really establish himself as a key player for his nation. It feels as though this fixture is the perfect opportunity for him to do so.
Palmer's versatility allows him to operate effectively in various positions, which could make him a key asset in breaking down a disciplined Finnish defence. As a young player eager to make his mark on the national team, he could be crucial in filling the void left by his more experienced teammates. If Palmer can harness his flair and vision on the pitch, he may play a pivotal role in leading England to an important victory on Sunday evening.
-
Match Details
Where is the game being played?
The match will be played at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium in Helsinki, Finland.
What time is kick-off?
Kick-off is at 5pm BST on Sunday 13th October, 2024.
How can I watch?
The game will be televised live and free-to-air in the UK on ITV1, with coverage getting underway at 4:15pm.
