France are set to host England in an international friendly on Tuesday at the Stade de France Stadium.
The Three Lions will see Burnley goalie Tom Heaton and Stoke star Jack Butland play a half each as Joe Hart takes a back seat after conceding two goals via set pieces against Scotland.
This would be the first start for the 31-year old Heaton – though he would now play all four divisions for the country. Ahead of the game, he said the ambition to play for the national team never left him after several club experiences at Manchester United, Cardiff, Queen Park Rangers, Bristol City and others.
The Scots scored two late efforts against their rivals in the World Cup qualifier so the former Manchester City keeper would play no part in the friendly, Gareth Southgate confirmed. However, Southgate insisted that it was never his intention to play Hart from the onset.
The manager refused to blame Hart for conceding the goals against their opponents at Hampden Park. Two strikes from Leigh Griffiths beat Hart, who played full 90 minutes.
“They were great free kicks. Beyond that, coaching conversations I have with players stay private,” Southgate replied when asked his feelings about the goals. He added that the team could have done better in so many areas.
Harry Kane would still be the skipper after the 2-2 draw the team posted in their last match. He is the latest experiment as Southgate works on the team.
The game would be the first England game in which a video assistant referee (VAR) would be employed in a senior game. FIFA is still trying the concept which could debut at the World Cup next year. The VAR helps resolve cases of mistaken identity, penalty decisions and debatable goals among other controversial subjects.
France have a good record at home, so the game is expected to be a low margin victory for either side or more likely a draw.