Roy Hodgson has opted to start Daniel Sturridge up front for the clash against the Republic of Ireland this evening.

Frank Lampard starts in midfield alongside Michael Carrick, with Jack Wilshere and Steven Gerrard both missing through injury.

Ashley Cole will captain England tonight in his 100th appearance for his country.

Meanwhile, Shane Long partners Robbie Keane up front for the Republic of Ireland, as Giovanni Trappatoni starts with David Forde in goal.

England: Hart; Johnson, Jagielka, Cahill, Cole; Carrick, Lampard; Walcott, Rooney, Oxlade-Chamberlain; Sturridge

Republic of Ireland: Forde; Coleman, O'Shea, St Ledger, Kelly; Walters, Whelan, McCarthy, McGeady; Long, Keane

Written by
Kristian Johnson