Soccer: Capello forced to test supporting cast against Egypt

England's friendly against Egypt on Wednesday was supposed to give Fabio Capello the chance to put his favoured XI through their paces ahead of the summer and iron out any kinks. Instead, he finds himself testing out some of his reserves.

It is in defence that Capello is particularly short-staffed, with Ashley Cole and new captain Rio Ferdinand injured. In addition, Wayne Bridge has put himself out of the reckoning in the wake of the Terry scandal.

So while Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard should all be fit - and the latter will wear the armband against the talented Egyptians - there are question marks elsewhere. Leighton Baines and Stephen Warnock seem the likeliest players to cash in at left back while Wes Brown or Matthew Upson will fill in at centre back alongside Terry.

Then there is Aaron Lennon, who continues to be bothered by injury. He may well not be fit enough to take his place on the right flank and Theo Walcott is equally injury-dogged at present, leaving the door open for David Beckham or James Milner to start on Wednesday.

Having won three straight African Cup of Nations titles, Egypt will provide a stern challenge so, though it was hardly the original plan, Capello will at least learn more about his supporting cast this week.