The game will be Parker's first taste of captaining his country in only his 11th appearance for the national side, having won just three caps up until last year.

The Spurs man has been praised for his fine performances this season both domestically and internationally, picking up the Vauxhall England Player of the Year award in the process.

Many had tipped Steven Gerrard to be handed the captain's armband, with the Huyton-born midfielder having captained the side on 15 previous occasions.

However, it is the former West Ham man who has got the nod, as interim manager Stuart Pearce has continued the trend of a new look England side, naming the uncapped Fraizer Campbell in the 25-man squad.

Parker has helped Harry Redknapp's side climb to third in the Premier League table since moving across London following West Ham's relegation last season.

Though a 5-2 defeat to Arsenal last time out has dampened hopes of a maiden Premier League title, Spurs look set to seal Champions League qualification this season.