African champions Egypt visit Wembley for the first time as they face a stern test against England in an international friendly on Wednesday night. The two teams are regarded as powerhouses in their respective continents and with the quality of individuals at both ends, an interesting contest is on the cards. The fixture might have been considered a no-contest a few years ago, but Hassan Shehata's Egypt have proven they can punch above their weight when it matters. The Egyptians overwhelmed Africa in recent years, brushing aside almost every high-profile team in the continent. They have also shown they are no pushovers against the likes of Brazil and Italy in the 2009 Confederations Cup. On the other hand, a side boasting Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard needs no introduction, yet a walk in the park is unlikely for the star-studded team. The World Cup and the Terry crisis The game is far from an exhibition, knowing it will be England's final warm-up before the World Cup. "The Egypt game is a big one for us," said Rooney, who hit 28 goals for Manchester United so far this term. "They're coming off the back of the African Nations Cup, which they won. And we need to show we're preparing well for the World Cup."
Moreover, England stars will certainly have something to prove to the public, amid the off-field saga that rocked their camp in recent weeks. The exposure of John Terry's affair with former Chelsea mate Wayne Bridge's ex-girlfriend sparked a state of unrest within the England squad. This was signified by the sacking of Terry as skipper, followed by the withdrawal of Bridge from the England roster. "I spoke with the players and told them we have to recreate the spirit of the group," England boss Fabio Capello said. "For some players, their private life is a big problem. Also for the clubs and, at the end, for me. But I hope they understand it is really important, in this last period, they are careful in their lives." Different Motives As for Egypt, the first match after the Nations Cup victory is of significant importance for Shehata and Co., who lost to Spain and Argentina after the 2006 and 2008 CAN triumphs. "It is true our motives won't be too strong when we meet England because we are not in the World Cup, but there are many things we can get from this game," said Egypt veteran Wael Gomaa. "First we need to stress on the good image we have left after winning the Nations Cup and prove we deserved a place in the World Cup
"We lost against Spain and Argentina, but everyone knows we played well in both games. "Playing against such big teams is useful regardless of the result. But hopefully we can play well and achieve a positive result against England this time." Team News Abdul-Zaher Al-Saqqa pulled out of the Egypt squad after picking up an injury in a league game with his team Eskisehirspor. Another defender who could miss out is Mahmoud Fathallah, who has a facial injury, leaving Moatassem Salem as the only fit and recognized center-half besides Gomaa. Midfield ace Mohamed Abou-Treika has just returned from a long-term injury and his inclusion is under doubt. England also have their fair share of problems at the back, with regular trio Rio Ferdinand, Ashley Cole and Glen Johnson all out injured. Leighton Baines or Steven Warnock could be given the nod on the left flank, while Wes Brown is also poised for a start. Rooney is set to shake off a knee problem and lead the frontline for the Three Lions.
