England vs Spain preview: Ramos poses big test for Kane

England take on Spain in their Nations League opener, looking to continue the momentum from an uplifting World Cup campaign this summer.

La Roja have a re-building job of their own under Luis Enrique and Gareth Southgate's men face a stern examination at Wembley.

THREE KEY CLASHES:

HARRY KANE vs SERGIO RAMOS

What a test this will be for Kane. Ramos  has been the best centre half in world football in recent seasons, captaining Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League wins.

Tottenham have been OK so far this season without being all guns blazing but Kane finally scored in August. This will be a big battle between the two main men.

JOHN STONES vs ALVARO MORATA

Morata looked like he might leave Chelsea in the summer as new manager Maurizio Sarri chased Gonzalo Higuain, so you can imagine that left him low on confidence.

Stones went up against Morata in the Community Shield at Wembley and comfortably won the battle so that will give him a positive mindset. Morata will have to relish the challenge and show up.

DELE ALLI vs SERGIO BUSQUETS

Spain tend to control midfield against most sides and Busquets is their most influential man.

This game could be decided on whether he is allowed to dominate. Alli will have to be alert whenever he’s in his vicinity. Alli’s form wasn’t the greatest last season but we know he is a very talented player who can make his mark on any game. He will be key for England.

THREE TALKING POINTS

1. This will be a big night for Jordan Pickford. There is no doubting his character and he enjoyed a fine World Cup. Don’t think that means the pressure is off him, though.

There are still others sniffing around and they are just as hungry for that England jersey. Pickford does not have the No 1 role nailed down. He cannot rest on his laurels and could do with a strong performance.

2. On the right side for England Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker are battling to start. On the left, that wing-back position looks up for grabs. So who wants it? Luke Shaw has a real opportunity.

The 23-year-old has had a good start to the season with Manchester United after missing out on the World Cup and being bashed by Jose Mourinho. Danny Rose is not hitting the heights he once was and Shaw should see this as a chance to make that position his own.

3. Gareth Southgate will go with three at the back. He used that at the World Cup and it worked so I doubt he will change a winning combination in defence now. But it is in midfield where this game could be won or lost.

That is where chances can come from and I’m confident England will create a few. As for Spain, their top scorer at the World Cup was Diego Costa. Not having the fiery forward available is an enormous loss.

Probable Lineups

SCORE PREDICTION: England 1-1 Spain