England-Russia on plastic pitch
Afp, London
England's potentially decisive Euro 2008 qualifier against Russia in Moscow will be played not on grass but on the artificial pitch at the 84,000-seat Luzhniki Stadium. England have never played a competitive match on a synthetic surface. The pitch for the October 17 tie has been authorised by UEFA and FIFA and was used by Spartak Moscow in last season's Champions League, although a grass surface will have been laid by the time next year's Champions League final is held there. England could get some experiences of playing on an artificial pitch as both the training grounds of Manchester United and Arsenal have non-turf, as well as grass playing areas. An FA delegation travelled to Moscow earlier this week and we understand the match will be played on an artificial surface," a Football Association spokesman said Wednesday. "Steve McClaren (England coach) is aware of this and is looking forward to preparing accordingly."
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