England will continue their quest for a maiden European Championship crown when they lock horns with Denmark in the semi-finals of Euro 2020 on Wednesday.
Gareth Southgate‘s side have been in red-hot form all tournament. They’ve not conceded a goal in five matches and are coming off a 4-0 win over Ukraine, which marked their biggest victory in a knockout game of a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup.
England last faced Denmark in a Nations League contest in October at Wembley, with the visitors coming away with a shock 1-0 victory.
Let’s take a look at the possible England lineup for the game against Denmark.
Euro 2020: Predicted England lineup vs Denmark (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
Jordan Pickford will retain his spot between the sticks for England. The 27-year-old Everton shot-stopper struggled for form during the domestic season, but he has impressed across five matches at the Euros. A clean sheet against Denmark would ensure Pickford holds the record for most shutouts at a single Euros (6).
Defence
Gareth Southgate will have plenty to ponder on ahead of the game. He employed a four-man defence throughout the group stages but switched to a back three against Germany. He reverted to a back-four against Ukraine and is likely to stick with the same system against Denmark.
(Semi-)final preparations! 💪 pic.twitter.com/Nodsa6S6U8
— England (@England) July 6, 2021
Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire and John Stones are guaranteed a starting spot. Kyle Walker has had a few shaky performances at right-back, but he is expected to keep his place ahead of Kieran Trippier.
Midfield
Southgate is unlikely to tinker with his midfield, considering the high stakes on offer. Jordan Henderson scored in the 4-0 win over Ukraine after coming off the bench, but he should not be able to dislodge Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips, who have been extremely solid in the middle of the park.
Mason Mount, Phil Foden and Jack Grealish will battle for the final midfield spot, with the Chelsea midfielder expected to get the nod.
Attack
Predicted England Lineup vs Denmark | Euro 2020
Harry Kane will be the first man on the team-sheet after his two-goal display against Ukraine. The England captain failed to find the back of the net in the first three games, but has since rediscovered his best form with three goals in his last two matches. He will lead the line once again for England.
Raheem Sterling has been England’s standout player in the Euros and will continue on the left flank. The 26-year-old has started each of England’s five matches, scoring three goals.
Bukayo Saka has recovered from the injury that kept him out of the quarterfinals and he could replace Jadon Sancho on the right. While Sancho offers much more of an attacking threat, Saka’s defensive capabilities might see him get the nod.