Capello relishing Spanish test

The Three Lions coach rates Spain the best side in the world at present, so in that sense alone it will give Capello an indication of how far England have progressed during his first 12 months in charge - and the distance still to be travelled.

"Results are always important but you also need to understand where we are now, for the next game and for the future," said Capello.

He continued: "In November we beat Germany. But their style is completely different to Spain.

"I want to see what will happen against a team who play in another style, similar to the South American way.

"At this moment, Spain are possibly the best team. They were one team who played very well at the European Championships and technically all the players are at a very high level."

Capello's entire 23-man squad turned up as planned to England's training base in Watford, including David Beckham, who needs one cap to equal Bobby Moore's record of 108 for an outfield player.

Emile Heskey does have a slight ankle knock that will keep him out of training but it is not threatening his participation in the game. Capello certainly has nothing against Wigan but the Italian is delighted Heskey has joined Villa's surge for the Champions League.

"I followed Heskey at Wigan," he said.

"But it is important for national players play for a team at a high level and I think it is good for Heskey to play with Gabriel Agbonlahor and Ashley Young in a good team who are so high in the table."