The Euro 2020 qualifier between England and international newcomers Kosovo will be played at Southampton’s St Mary’s Stadium on Tuesday 10 September, just under a year on from the friendly against Switzerland at Leicester which was the last time the Three Lions played away from Wembley.
With a Wembley qualifier against Bulgaria set for the Saturday before, it is logical move from the Football Association as the Kosovo clash may have proved a hard sell and a near-capacity crowd can certainly now be expected on the South Coast.
Our preference here at England Mad would have been for England to make a trip to the North-East and play the game at St James’ Park or the Stadium of Light but it is always good to see the team go on the road and the logistics of remaining relatively close to Wembley with two matches in four days would also have to be taken into account.
Saints star James Ward-Prowse will be looking to make Gareth Southgate’s squad for the game while his team-mate Nathan Redmond has earned plenty of plaudits for his form this season and could also be a contender come September for an international cap on his club ground.
Kosovo are taking part in qualifying for the European Championships for the first time and drew 1-1 against Bulgaria in their opening match.