Published: Saturday October 10, 2009 MYT 9:41:00 AM
No let-up from England vs. Ukraine, says Capello
DNIPROPETROVSK, Ukraine: England coach Fabio Capello warned Ukraine on Friday that his team would not be taking it easy in their World Cup qualifier, despite having already sealed a place at next year's tournament in South Africa.
With eight wins from as many games, England have only pride at stake in Saturday's game, while Ukraine can take a step closer to a playoff slot.
England leads Group 6 with 24 points. Croatia, which has played a game more, is second on 17 points, and Ukraine has 15.
But Capello made it clear there was no chance of England letting up on the momentum that has taken the side to South Africa.
"For me, this is not a friendly game. I will choose the best 11 players," he told a news conference.
"We will play to win."
The Italian said he expected a tough game and singled out former Chelsea and AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko as a threat.
"Shevchenko always seems to score against me. I hope not this time," he said, referring to when they both worked in Serie A.
Capello did not reveal who would start in goal for England, where veteran David James could return after a spell out with injury.
Defender Rio Ferdinand is expected to be back in the starting line up after missing last month's 5-1 win over Croatia through injury.
Ferdinand ruled out thoughts of revenge on Saturday, after Croatia blocked England's path in qualifying for the 2008 European Championship.
"We remember what happened," he said.
"But we don't think about the past or what Ukraine has to gain." - AP
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