Two out of three ain't bad

Robert Green and Matthew Upson both played a full 90 minutes as England beat Kazakhstan 4-0 in Almaty this evening.

Fabio Capello's side kept up their 100% winning record in Group 6 with a comprehensive victory over the Eastern European minnows - a win that puts them eight points clear of second-placed Croatia.

Despite a nervous opening - in which Green, making his first start for England was beaten by a header that was thankfully disallowed - Capello's side were never in any trouble once new Manchester City signing Gareth Barry put them ahead with a header shortly before the half time break.

Upson, deputising for the injured Rio Ferdinand at centre-half had a part in the second goal, starting the move which led to Emile Heskey making it 2-0. Second half goals from Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard (penalty) ensured all three points went to England.

Carlton Cole, the third Hammer in the squad failed to make the final 18-man match day squad, with Capello preferring Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch.