Coral look at England’s likely starting XI in Russia

CB – John Stones 

Pep Guardiola’s influence is starting to take effect – and in a positive way. The Manchester City centre-half is the man that the defence must be built around going forward. Now, he is beginning to match his quality with the ball alongside the decision making that makes a solid defensive player.

With every game that passes he is growing as a defender. By the time next summer’s World Cup comes around, the Coral News Team are expecting Stones to be the real deal.

RWB – Kyle Walker

Walker is one of the best wing-backs in world football at the moment. His attacking quality gives England real purpose down the right.

The 27-year-old also has pace to burn. And that means that even when exposed defensively, he has the quality to track back and avert the danger.

CM – Eric Dier

The Tottenham ace’s involvement is crucial in providing a screen for the defence. He has been one of England’s top performers in the last 18 months and is best when deployed at the base of the midfield.

If Southgate’s men are to have a good tournament, Dier will need to be at the top of his game.

CM – Jordan Henderson

Much like Cahill, Jordan Henderson provides the key experience in the middle of the park. On top of that, he is assured on the ball and has the ability to control the play.

He’s a likely starter as England try to find a balance between their defensive and attacking qualities.

CAM – Dele Alli

England’s most creative player has his position secure at the top of the midfield. Key for the Three Lions is Alli’s understanding with Harry Kane.

If the pair can link up for their country like they do for their club then Southgate could be on to a winner.

LAM – Adam Lallana

Adam Lallana’s influence on this England team cannot be understated. For large parts of the 2016-17 season, he was the Three Lions’ best player.

He may be injured at the moment but there can be no doubting the Liverpool ace’s importance when fit. In what could be a positive for England, Lallana’s late start to the current season could keep him fresh in preparation for Russia next summer.

ST – Harry Kane

Harry Kane is probably the first name on Gareth Southgate’s teamsheet. Arguably, he is England’s only world-class player.

If provided with good service in Russia next year Kane could elevate himself to new levels of greatness.

RAM – Marcus Rashford

Rashford is slowly starting to come into his own for club and country. He showed great character in scoring against Slovakia last month at Wembley.

And for Manchester United, he’s beginning to establish himself as a consistent performer. He’s a huge danger coming in from the wing for England and remains a relatively unknown quantity on the international stage.

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