Alex Reid looks at whether the once ever-present appearance of English clubs in the later stages of the Champions League is set to become a thing of the past
Craig Dobson looks at QPR's decision to sack Neil Warnock and replace him with Mark Hughes
Andy Pakes previews this Sunday afternoon clash in the first edition of Game of the Week for 2012
Dave Hughes tells us about his sporting hero, Wes Morgan
Yet against all the odds, England managed a 1-0 win. The winning goal occurred after in the 49th minute when a James Milner free-kick was headed onto the inside of the post by Darren Bent, after which it fell kindly for Frank Lampard to head in from close range.
Spain may have dominated possession and created more chances, but it is perhaps unfair to call England lucky. Their win was based on an excellent defensive display, and for all their class Spain produced few clear cut chances. Any game plan against Spain must involve conceding that Spain will inevitably control possession, and working from there. England did just this, crowding out the centre of midfield and stifling Spain's final-third creativity.
Wisely, the widespread reaction in the media to this English victory has been only cautiously optimistic. Their defensive resolve was both impressive and effective, but the truth remains that they couldn't get near to Spain when they had the ball in midfield. And of course it was only a friendly, in which Spain have had a poor record in since their world cup triumph, losing 4-1 to Argentina, 4-0 to Portugal and 2-1 to Italy. Instead, they have won where it's mattered, winning all ten fixture in Euros qualification.
But England can of course take a lot from this victory, not least the permanences of several players who may prove pivotal in this summer's championships. Joleon Lescott had his best game in an England shirt, forming a solid partnership with Phil Jagielka that achieved the rare feat of a clean sheet against Spain. With Terry's current problems and Rio Ferdinand's persistent injury problems, it is encouraging to see the strength in depth and competition for places at centre back. Scott Parker in midfield too did everything that was asked of him, screening the defence and breaking up the play, and with the more creative Jack Wilshere to return England look to have a well balanced spine.
England may not have the class, natural talent and team fluidity of Spain, but if they are able to shut out games in a similarly effective way come the summer, they may just surprise us all in the Euros...
It seems another run in of misplaced optimism awaits!
As you point out Steve, it was only a friendly - I feel everyone is getting a little over excited about what this might mean for England's chances at the Euros! Ok, Capello is bringing new players through and experimenting with the squad but realistically we are no where near as good as the Spain team on their day and with a full sqaud. It was a great match though 
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