We look at three individual match-ups ahead of Friday night's World Cup qualifier

England host San Marino in a sold out World Cup qualifying clash at Wembley Stadium tonight.

Manchester United star Wayne Rooney will captain the Three Lions in the absence of the suspended Steven Gerrard.

Fellow United man Michael Carrick could also start following Frank Lampard’s withdrawal from the squad.

And Manchester City centre back Joleon Lescott will be hoping to be handed a starting role at the back.

Here, we take a look at some of the key battles that could take place this evening.

MICHAEL CARRICK v MATTEO VITAIOLI

After missing out on a place in Roy Hodgson's squad for Euro 2012, Carrick will be keen to cement his place in the England starting XI with an impressive performance at Wembley.

The 31-year-old midfielder will be looking to collect his 25th cap if he starts tonight’s match.

San Marino midfielder Matteo Vitaioli likes to push forward and England will have to be wary of him on the counter-attack.

Vitaioli has the ability to get to the byline and deliver the ball into dangerous areas for his team.

JOLEON LESCOTT v MANUEL MARANI

Joleon Lescott has recently enjoyed a starring role for England, impressing both for his club side Manchester City and the national team.

The 30-year-old is a good reader of the game and adds a strong physical presence to any defence.

But he will need to keep watch on Marani. With goals for San Marino a rarity, Marani managed to get himself on the scoresheet in just the seventh minute of a 3-2 friendly defeat to Malta.

WAYNE ROONEY v DAVIDE SIMONCINI

Skipper for the day Rooney is one of the most experienced players in the England squad with 76 caps.

And he will be looking to cash in against the country with the lowest FIFA ranking and add to his 29 international strikes.

San Marino defender Simoncini – the twin brother of their goalkeeper Aldo Simoncini – looks as though he will have to play the game of his life to help his sibling avoid conceding.