With Euro 2024 now in full swing, England will open up their campaign on Sunday with their first Group C clash against Serbia. The Three Lions will be tackling the tournament with fire in their bellies as they look to avenge their heartbreak at Euro 2020.
Gareth Southgate sparked plenty of debate with his decisions in the lead up to finalising his 26-man squad but he has a strong selection to pick from and that’s where the headache lies. Who will he choose to play out England’s first clash in Germany as they look to start their tournament off with a big three points?
Newcastle United’s Kieran Tripper and Anthony Gordon both made the final cut while big decisions were made to axe the likes of James Maddison and Jack Grealish.
Based on recent reports of fitness plus comments made by Southgate himself, we’ve put together how the boss could look to set up against Serbia at the Veltins-Arena this weekend.
5. LB: Kieran Trippier
The Newcastle star is expected to keep his place in Southgate's XI against Serbia. | Getty Images
6. CDM: Declan Rice
Fans can expect to see Rice at the heart of the midfield and is probably one of the first names to be included on the team-sheet. | Getty Images
7. CM: Trent Alexander-Arnold
On the transition of TAA to midfield, Southgate says he believes the Liverpool star is ready to start in that role. "We think he can offer something we don't have and give the team a different dimension. He's really been diligent in understanding the role." Southgate also described Alexander-Arnold's attitude towards his new position as 'first-class'. | Getty Images
8. CM: Jude Bellingham
Bellingham is a real threat for both club and country and not starting him would be a huge miss for England as they hope to rack up some important goals. | Getty Images