INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY PREVIEW: England vs. Ghana from Wembley Stadium

England host Ghana at Wembley Stadium in an international friendly that will be more about who isn't playing rather than who is.

After defeating Wales, 2-0, in a Euro 2012 qualifier, Fabio Capello has sent notable players back to their clubs: Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard, John Terry, Michael Dawson, and Wayne Rooney.

This will provide players with limited international experience to showcase their talents, such as Leighton Baines, Gary Cahill, and Scott Parker (if he is fit.)

As for Ghana, star midfielder Michael Essien will not be available, even though he plays for nearby Chelsea. Essien has offered no real reason for his reluctance to play for his home nation, but will be present for the match.

Without legitimate star power from England, this friendly could be more competitive than expected.

Ghana are coming off a fantastic performance in the 2010 World Cup. The Black stars defeated the United States, and narrowly lost to Uruguay in the quarter-finals.

They may be jet lagged after a 3-0 victory at Congo on Sunday.

Ghana are led by Andre Ayew, a winger who is having a fine season with Marseille, and showed great promise in South Africa this past summer.

Arsenal's Jack Wilshere is expected in the starting 11 for England. Manchester City's Gareth Barry will be the captain.

No African team has ever beat England at Wembley.