England v Albania
'B' International Friendly
8pm, Friday 25 May 2007
Turf Moor, Burnley FC
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On announcing the B squad to play Albania at Burnley on Friday 25 May, England Head Coach Steve McClaren said:

“With such a big gap from the end of the Premier League season on Sunday until our match with Estonia on 6 June, it was very important we arranged this match to keep the players not involved in The FA Cup Final or Champions League Final match fit.

“We’ve also got the big game with Brazil at Wembley on 1 June, and I expect to have the players from Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United playing in that one.

“The B game will provide a good opportunity for a lot of players. It’s the first time I’ve called up David Bentley, Joleon Lescott, Nicky Shorey and Phil Jagielka, and they have earned the call. They’ve all played very well for their clubs this season – making a real impact.

“Additionally it’s good to have Alan Smith back in an England squad after his horrendous injury. He’s worked extremely hard and shown great determination to get back to full fitness, and he has played very well since his return for Manchester United.

“Ledley King is another player who has missed quite a few England games with injury, so it’s very pleasing to have Ledley back with us, especially with Jonathan Woodgate ruled out.

“David Nugent showed me enough when we were together in March to show that he merits being involved again.

“Michael Owen’s return from injury is obviously a massive boost too. It’s almost a year since he picked up the injury in Germany and any side at international level would miss a player with Michael’s goalscoring pedigree.

“I’m excited at the prospect of being able to pick a fit Michael Owen for the England team and this game will be great preparation for the games with Brazil and Estonia.

“I know the rest of the squad will be delighted to have Michael back as he is a proven top-class international goalscorer. He’s done well to get back to fitness with Newcastle and I’m sure the crowd will be excited about seeing him back in an England shirt at Burnley.

“Immediately after the B game I will be announcing the full squad for the matches against Brazil and Estonia – so it’s a real chance for these players to impress.”

Kick-off is 8pm and tickets for the match will be priced £10 adult and £5 concessions. Tickets are on sale and are available from the Burnley FC Ticket Office or by calling 0870 443 1914. Group bookings can be made via TheFA.com.