England will play their final Group B game of the World Cup on Tuesday evening when they face familiar foes Wales at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium.
The Three Lions are still in pole position to qualify for the round of 16 after their disappointing 0-0 draw with the USA last week. A win would confirm their place in the knockout rounds as Group B winners.
However, Gareth Southgate’s side could still be eliminated if they lose to Wales, who must beat England by at least four goals and hope that Iran’s clash with the USA ends in a draw to advance to the last 16 of the competition.
England Team News
England manager Gareth Southgate could be working with a fully-fit squad for Tuesday’s mouthwatering clash with Wales after welcoming James Maddison back to training from a knee injury. Kyle Walker is also fit and should be raring to go.
Predicted England Lineup vs Wales (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Jordan Pickford recorded his first clean sheet of the 2022 World Cup in the goalless draw with the USA. He will be hoping to shut the shop as quickly as possible against Wales.
Defence
Lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, England’s backline could only see one change. Fit-again Kyle Walker is pushing for a start and could replace Kieran Trippier at right-back. Harry Maguire, John Stones and Luke Shaw are expected to retain their places in the England defence.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Coady, Ben White and Eric Dier will offer cover for the defensive positions from the bench.
Midfield
Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham will form the double pivot in the middle of the park, trying to keep things ticking for England and disrupting Wales’ rhythm. They have performed well so far, and Southgate will want both Rice and Bellingham to create meaningful chances in the final third for the forwards.
The England boss was hesitant to bring on Phil Foden for Mason Mount in the number 10 role on Friday, but with Mount enduring an off night against the USA, Foden could push for a start in the hole behind the striker.
James Maddison returning to fitness is a big boost for the Three Lions, and the Leicester City playmaker could be introduced off the bench if Southgate’s side are in need of creativity and flair.
Attack
Harry Kane is still waiting for his first goal at the World Cup in Qatar, but there is virtually no chance of Southgate dropping his skipper. Kane remains England’s chief source of goals and is nailed-on to lead the attack.
Like Mount, Raheem Sterling failed to impress against the USA and could get the hook, with Jack Grealish replacing the Chelsea winger on the left flank. Bukayo Saka should retain his place on the opposite wing.
The likes of Marcus Rashford and Callum Wilson might come on to make an impact as substitutes in the second half if required.