England vs. Netherlands: Preview, Live Stream, Start Time and More

England and Netherlands have a long, classic history that spans decades, complete with lopsided defeats and riveting nail-biters.

The last classic friendly was in 2002, when the two teams battled to a 1-1 draw as Michael Ricketts and Darius Vassell made their international debuts.

Having finished as runners-up at the last World Cup, the Dutch are heavily favored on Wednesday. Meanwhile, England's injuries continue to dog the team.

Here's a look at their upcoming international friendly.

Where: Wembley Stadium, London, England

Watch: Fox Soccer Channel, Fox Deportes

When: Wednesday, Feb. 29 at 3 p.m. ET

Most Important Player to Watch: Daniel Sturridge

With Wayne Rooney out due to injury and Darren Bent likely out for the season after a scan revealed ruptured ligaments on an injured ankle, somebody needs to step up for England, and Daniel Sturridge appears to be the man for the job.

The 22-year-old's quickness, dribbling ability and powerful long shots give England versatility, and Sturridge may finally get his opportunity to shine in the middle rather than on the outside flank. This will either be a landmark game for the youngster or more fodder for his critics.

Key Matchup: Scott Parker vs. Wesley Sneijder

Parker was named England's Player of the Year in 2011, albeit in an unspectacular year. But, the veteran has played well as of late and deserves credit for his play last year.

As for Sneijder, he's had a rough year, as he hasn't been incorporated smoothly into the midfield and has had some injury troubles as well. Nonetheless, he's undoubtedly a talented player, evidenced by Manchester United's interest in him. You can bet he'll be looking to make a difference in the international friendly.

What They're Saying

Tony Cottee said on Tuesday, via TalkSport.co.uk:

"

Darren Bent’s injury didn’t look good and it’s a blow for England. I’d play [Daniel] Sturridge rather than [Danny] Welbeck [against Holland].

He's been out of sorts a bit at Chelsea but that’s because he wants to play down the middle rather than on the wing. He’s been in good goalscoring form though.

"

Looking back at England's win over Holland in Euro 96, Rob Bagchi of the Guardian wrote:

"

It was a rare moment of rapture against the Dutch, a team England have struggled to master since the game went professional in the Netherlands in 1954. It has often proved a chastening experience for the team and their manager. Even in 1970, Holland's first match at Wembley, neither England's status as world champions nor gratitude for Sir Alf Ramsey could stop the choruses of "what a load of rubbish" and bouts of slow hand-clapping castigating an experimental team's failure to pierce the opposition's defence during a goalless draw.

"

Prediction 

Netherlands 2, England 1