World Cup qualifiers. Key European Fixtures: Montenegro vs England

England and Montenegro are the most likely candidates to secure direct qualification for the 2014 World Cup from Group H. Montenegro are topping the table with 13 points, having won 5 and drawn just one out of their last 5 games. Second-placed England are two points behind the leaders and will do their utmost to try and turn the deficit in the upcoming game in Podgorica.

Third-placed Ukraine and fourth-placed Poland, who are level on points, have only slim chances of chasing the second place after earning just 5 points from 4 games.

Montenegro recent form:

Montenegro managed to edge Moldova 1-0 by courtesy of Vucinic’s late goal in a close fought game played in Chisinau.

England recent form:

England have easily met the fans’ expectations in a dominant win by thrashing minnows San Marino 8-0. Roy’s boys will be hoping to maintain their clinical form to leapfrog the opponents in the upcoming crucial fixture.

Montenegro team news:

Milorad Pekovic is suspended for the tie, after earning a second yellow against Moldova.

England team news:

Hodgson has decided to rest some of key players for San Marino clash in a bid to keep them fresh and ready for the game in Podgorica. Welbeck, Gerrard and Johnson are expected to return in the first team on Tuesday.

Walcott is set to miss the encounter, after suffering a pelvic strain at the training session. Gary Cahill is expected to be on the sidelines due to fitness issues.