England geared up well for the upcoming World Cup in Russia by beating Nigeria 2-1 in the first of their two warm-up games on Saturday. They play their next and final warm-up game against Costa Rica on June 7 at Elland Road.
Gareth Southgate has named a 23-man England squad for the World Cup which appears to be a balanced one, with a mixture of experience and youngsters.
The Three Lions start their campaign against Russia on June 18, before playing against Panama and Belgium on June 24 and June 28 respectively.
Without further ado, let us have a look at the strongest lineup England could field at the World Cup.
Strongest England XI for World Cup
Manager: Gareth Southgate
Formation: 3-4-3
Jordan Pickford (GK)
There may be very little to separate between Jordan Pickford and Jack Butland in terms of shot-stopping ability or experience but the Everton man aces with the ball at his feet which gives him the advantage under Southgate.
Kyle Walker (RCB)
He is an attacking right-back but was deployed in the three-man defence against Nigeria. He did well, adding a lot of pace to the backline but needs to grow himself into a practically new role.
John Stones (CB)
A firm favourite for Southgate due to his composure in possession and ability to bring the ball out from the defence, Stones has to be extra vigilant as his wastefulness in possession can harm the Three Lions big time.
Gary Cahill (LCB)
By far the most experienced player that Southgate has chosen, Cahill will have a big task cut out in Russia. He needs to be more aggressive and extra attentive if England are to shine.
Kieran Trippier (RWB)
Full of pace and an excellent crosser of the ball, Trippier is an attacking outlet for Southgate that can be utilised to great effect.
Danny Rose (LWB)
Although Young provides more attacking impetus, he is not a defender and could get bullied by elite teams in Russia. Therefore, Rose remains the safe bet as he would provide both the attacking threat as well as defensive solidity on the left.
Eric Dier (CM)
One of the most important members for Southgate, Dier’s versatility adds value to his name. However, the Spurs man will be predominantly used in central midfield.
Dele Alli (CM)
Southgate has an interesting conundrum in midfield with Jordan Henderson also in the equation but the manager should go with Dele Alli. Having impressed in the warm-up against Nigeria, Alli has answered a lot of questions about his position in the national side.
Jesse Lingard (RW)
Jesse Lingard had a fantastic season with Manchester United and would look to reproduce the same vein of form for England. Busy and effective, the 25-year-old’s movement and ability to pick up goal-scoring positions make him such a threat.
Raheem Sterling (LW)
Coming into the tournament on the back of a brilliant season with champions Manchester City, Raheem Sterling is one of the very few players who is guaranteed of a starting place under Southgate.
Harry Kane (ST)
England’s new skipper, Harry Kane is undoubtedly the Three Lions’ biggest goal-threat. The Spurs man has been in a really good form of late and needs to fire on all cylinders if Southgate’s men are to taste glory in Russia.
