As the domestic season drew to a close; attention now turns to the two international fixtures celebrating the FAs 125^th Anniversary starting with a game against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley tonight, followed by a trip to Brazil on Sunday.

Ashley Cole will captain the side tonight under the Wembley arch, after achieving 100 caps for the three lions. There have been rumours that Cole will only walk the side out, and Frank Lampard would then take on the famous England armband, however England have confirmed that Cole will captain the side for the duration of the game. The manager has called for supporters to respect the Irish fans by chanting appropriately in support of the team and nothing against the travelling fans. This will be the first time the two nations have met since 1995.

Following this match, the team then head towards South America, to take on the most successful nation in world football, Brazil. The English defence will have to deal with Neymar, who last week completed a move to Spanish giants Barcelona for a rumoured £30m. Along with Neymar, England will have to deal with a resurgent Ronaldinho, who has been in top form and perhaps back to his best since returning to his native Brazil.

England will face two very stern tests as they celebrate the FAs’ Anniversary but these two fixtures should provide entertainment and excitement for the fans watching the games either at the stadiums or on their Televisions.