England booked their place in the Four Nations final with an emphatic win over reigning champions New Zealand, but it will take another huge effort if they are to see off Australia and take the crown on Saturday.

Ten years after their last major international football tournament was overshadowed by the Roy Keane-Mick McCarthy spat, the Republic of Ireland will be back on the big stage at Euro 2012.

There will be no better yardstick for England to assess where they stand in world football than when they take on the mighty Spain at Wembley on Saturday evening, with the kick-off at 5.15.

Saturday’s Four Nations showdown between England and New Zealand at the KC Stadium is arguably the biggest game for head-coach Steve McNamara since he took the job (England 11/8, draw 18/1, New Zealand 8/13).

England (13/5 – 2012 Six Nations Outright) appear to be at yet another crossroads following the dismal showing at the recent World Cup, but Martin Johnson has been backed to stay at the helm by former captain Lewis Moody.

Another break for internationals means now is the perfect time to take stock and see what conclusions can be drawn from the 2011/12 football season so far.

England have not played a rugby league Test at the national stadium since 1997 and now head-coach Steve McNamara and his men have their biggest challenge, when they take on Four Nations favourites Australia at Wembley on Saturday (9/2, draw 25/1, Australia 1/7 in the match betting).

England and Wales start their Four Nations campaign at Leigh on Saturday (Match Betting – England 1/100, draw 50/1, Wales 20/1), with Steve McNamara’s men going into the match as big favourites. Although the home team should win comfortably, the coach will be well aware how important a big score could be to set them up.

Ahead of their Four Nations campaign England (7/1 Four Nations outright) have been less than convincing but head-coach Steve McNamara and his players do have the ability to cause teams problems.

England will be desperate to avoid a 5-0 series whitewash when they take on India in the fifth one-day international on Tuesday. It has been a chastening experience for the tourists after their success last summer and they will be keen to end on a high (India 8/15, England 6/4 Match Prices).