The FA have confirmed that England will face both Brazil and the Republic of Ireland in friendlies next year in honour of the association’s 150th anniversary.
The five-time World Cup winners will face the Three Lions at Wembley on February 6 2013, with a match in Rio de Janeiro also pencilled in for early June 2013, with Roy Hodgson’s men expected to face a second South American team in a mini-tour.
Meanwhile, Ireland will play their first game at the new Wembley stadium on May 29 2013.
Due to the fixtures, England will not play any World Cup qualifiers at the end of the current season. The squad will return to the country from South America before June 11, when other nations will still be involved in the qualifying process.
Adrian Bevington, managing director of Club England told the FA’s website: “We’re delighted Brazil will kick-off the FA’s 150th anniversary celebrations at Wembley.
“2013 is a landmark year for the FA and an exciting England fixture programme. In addition to Wembley hosting the Uefa Champions League final it will form a key part of the celebrations.”
More to follow…