Roy Hodgson admits that England must find a way to shackle San Marino’s array of talent when the two sides slug out a Euro 2016 qualifier on Thursday.

The enclaved microstate, serene, has given notice that they intend to field a full-strength side at Wembley, one containing a whole host of hungry young postmen intent on delivering.

With England still reeling from a disappointing World Cup campaign – sorry, make that several disappointing World Cup campaigns – er, and some Euro ones too – Hodgson has warned his brave charges not to rest on their laurels.

He said: “We’ve had a good record against San Marino in the past, but I can see it being much closer this time.

“Just because even Carlton bloody Palmer once scored against them, doesn’t mean they won’t make our lives exceedingly difficult on Thursday.

“We’ve shown on a number of occasions in recent times that we have what it takes to roll with the worst of them, so we’ll have to be very careful to ward off any unwarranted complacency.

“It should be a great game between two evenly matched sides. I’m looking forward to seeing how it pans out.”

San Marino’s manager has warned his players that there are no easy games in international football.