England will kickstart their World Cup campaign in Qatar with a game against Iran on Monday by 2:00 pm WAT....CONTINUE READING
Gareth Southgate is expected to field a strong side for the match, as he would want to start the campaign on a strong foot.
Although, he will be missing some players in the first match due to injury and fitness concerns – Kyle Walker and James Maddison.
As such, the England manager could go with a 3-4-3 formation, which would enable his wing-backs to fully join in the attack.
Jordan Pickford is expected to be between the sticks for the Three Lions, as he is the first choice goalkeeper.
While a three-man central defense of Manchester City’s John Stones, Tottenham Hotspur’s Eric Dier and Manchester United’s Harry Maguire are expected to be picked ahead of other squad members.
Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham and West Ham United’s Declan Rice have been consistent with their clubs, and as such are expected to anchor the midfield.
While Luke Shaw and Kieran Trippier are expected to play as wing-backs, given their abilities to initiate attacks from the rear.
In-form Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka alongside Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane and Manchester City’s Phil Foden are expected to spearhead the attack in the match.
Possible Formation (3-4-3)
Potential Starting XI: Pickford; Stones, Dier, Maguire; Trippier, Bellingham, Rice, Shaw; Saka, Kane, Foden.
