Hamburg defender Michael Mancienne has warned England to be on their guard against Poland striker Robert Lewandowski this evening.

Twenty-five-year-old Lewandowski, who has scored 15 goals for the Polish national team since he made his debut back in 2008, is considered to be one of his country's key players.

Having played against the Borussia Dortmund frontman in the Bundesliga, former Chelsea defender Mancienne is aware of the danger that Lewandowski could pose to the England rearguard in Warsaw.

"He's a very good player, a good striker, and you could see that even though we won the game," Mancienne told the London Evening Standard. "He's a tough opponent and if he gets a chance he will take it, more often than not.

"He likes to receive the ball to feet in and around the box, where he can bring other players into the game, but he will also chase you down if the ball is played over the top.

"He's a hard worker and a player with a high technical level, so England will have to be on their guard."

Mancienne admitted yesterday that he has not given up hope of claiming a place in the senior England squad.

Written by
Liam Apicella