Five things Gareth Southgate needs to do before the 2018 World Cup

Gary Cahill, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are all third-choice options. Although recent call-ups for James Tarkowski and Alfie Mawson would suggest that Southgate still isn’t happy with his defence going into the summer tournament.

Have a back-up plan for Kane

England have been stung by a lack of a plan B before.

If Harry Kane’s injury is worse than first feared, then Southgate could be forced to alter his plans for the way that England set-up. That may mean a change in personnel to accommodate a switch in formation without the focal point up top.

The Three Lions boss has experimented with different systems in Kane’s absence before. Fixtures against Netherlands and Italy this week should provide him with the vital information to be able to settle on a plan B, should England require it.

Utilise Tottenham’s success

England must base their play and their personnel around Tottenham. Spurs look likely to have at least four representatives in the team for the opener against Tunisia. Add in Kyle Walker, who joined Manchester City from the North Londoners last summer, and that influence appears even greater.

The understanding between the players is already there. The link-ups between individuals are already there. It makes sense for Southgate to utilise all of that in his preparation for the World Cup.

Settle the Wilshere question

Is he going or is he staying? The Jack Wilshere question continues to divide opinion among England fans.

Southgate had previously dismissed calls to bring the midfield ace back into the squad after two years out in the cold. But the 26-year-old’s recent good form for Arsenal appears to have forced the Three Lions’ managers’ hand.

Odds of 4/9 suggest that the diminutive ace is likely to go to Russia. But if he does go, he must start. A player of Wilshere’s undoubted quality is wasted on the bench. If Southgate opts to take the Gunners star, he must play him and he must play him in his best position.

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