England prepare for the game against Spain with a number of key players out injured. It presents a lot of difficulties for manager Roy Hodgson, who has taken the situation in a positive frame of mind.

The former Liverpool boss believes that 14 players being unavailable for selection is a boost for other players to show what they can do for the national team. It is only because of the absence of players like Sturridge, Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy has been called up for the national team. Vardy was playing in League One not too long ago, but he is now close to making his England debut.

This match may just be a friendly encounter, but it presents Hodgson with a great opportunity to test out his players. The England manager has also claimed that the long list of absentees will not affect the preparations for the Euro 2016. Unlike in the previous major tournaments, there is not a lot of pressure upon England to win this title. However, they have been impeccable in qualification and will be looking to carry this form into the actual tournament. After the game against Spain, England will be involved friendly against France. Hodgson has confirmed that Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney will not start in the game against the Spaniards.

“It’s a change of environment and will give us general thoughts going forwards about what we want to do in June, getting people used to different environments and places to play and stay.It’s an early start in that respect by spending a few extra days in Spain, the games will certainly stretch us to our limit, we will see how these boys do and we will certainly learn a lot.I just hope after these two games I will be wiser than I am today and hopefully have my feet still on the ground,” said Hodgson.