IT could have been a battle of the Saints during last night’s international duty, but for a managerial selection that has raised eyebrows on the Adriatic coast.
Back in FIFA World Cup qualifying, the road to Qatar 2022 continues for nations across Europe and across the planet.
Just two Saints players were due to be in action during the recent international matchday, here’s how they got on.
Jan Bednarek’s Poland faced Albania at home and played the full 90 minutes at the heart of their defence. His side ran out 4-1 winners in a goal-feast that saw Robert Lewandowski star with a strike and an assist.
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The Saints defender also picked up a booking with just minutes to go in the match, whilst leading 3-1, for a bad foul.
These two sides are in England’s qualifying group, Group I, so results do play a significant bearing. Poland are now second in the table on seven points from the opening four matches, five points behind Gareth Southgate’s men.
They lead third-place Hungary, who were defeated 4-0 by England, on goal difference alone, and then Albania by one point.
However, despite being selected for this international break, young striker Armando Broja didn’t even make the matchday squad and watched from the stands as his side succumbed to defeat.
The selection has raised eyebrows in his country but he could instead feature when they welcome Hungary to Tirana on Saturday 4 September.
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