World Cup qualifiers preview (Europe): Montenegro vs Ukraine

Montenegro will be entering the game against Ukraine in Podgorica knowing, that a win will boost their chances of securing a top table finish.

Second-placed England were held to a 1-1 away draw by resilient Montenegro side two months ago, meaning they are trailing the leaders by two points. Should Montenegro beat Ukraine they will extend their lead to five points, although England are still considered favourites to progress from the first place as they have a game in hand and will face the current leaders at Wembley in October.

Montenegro have beaten Ukraine in Podgorica last October, but national team manager Brnovic warns his players from complacency in the forthcoming game. He said: “Many people are already thinking about (our games in) Warsaw and London, and the World Cup, but I should warn you that out of the last eight matches, the only time Ukraine have lost is against us.

“Always at home we go for three points. All I want, however, is to sound a warning of caution. It is important that we have the same atmosphere as we did against England,” added manager.

Brnovic has few serious injury concerns ahead of the qualifier, with Stefan Savic and Miodrag Dzudovic definitely missing due to injuries. Milan Jovanovic has been dropped from the squad, as he is without the club.

Meanwhile Poland will need a win against Moldova in Chisinau if they are to continue the struggle for second place in Group H.