Fabio Capello’s England will start their 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign against minnows Andorra in Group Six on Saturday in Barcelona. It will be the first competitive match for the Italian as Three Lions boss since he replaced Steve McClaren at the turn of the year.

The Three Lions failed to qualify for the Euro 2008 and McLaren paid the price losing his job to the 62-year-old former Real Madrid and Juventus boss.

Capello’s side are expected to win against Andorra before they head for a challenge of a far greater magnitude to Croatia, who had beaten the Three Lions in their Euro 2008 qualifiers, for Wednesday’s clash in Zagreb.

England have suffered a new injury blow with vice-captain Rio Ferdinand ruled out for tomorrow’s clash due to a neck problem. The Manchester United centre-back is, however, expected to be back for Croatia trip. Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard is considered a doubtful starter with a thigh muscle complaint.

Amongst the big names missing for England are Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard (groin) and United midfielder Owen Hargreaves (knee) owing to injury problems, while Newcastle United striker Michael Owen has not been selected due to what Capello believes is lack of fitness.

Kazakhstan, Belarus and Ukraine are the other teams in Group Six.