99% of people may not agree
Now that the international friendlies in March are over, the countdown to Euro 2024 has begun.
England went into the match as one of the favorites. They've reached the semi-finals, finals and quarter-finals in the last three big games, so now it's really time to go all out.
For Southgate, this may be the first time he's really under pressure to win. Outside of France, it's fair to say England have the most talent on paper.
But, football isn't about paper, just in case you didn't know.
As we wait for the summer of football to begin, an age-old debate has begun. Who is playing where? Which bar are we watching? Where is he playing Player X? !
Everyone is keen to speculate on who will start in England's opening group game against Serbia on June 16, so don't worry, I'm doing it for you.
I can't claim to have a crystal ball and predict exactly what Southgate will do, it's just me thinking about what he should do. Keyword thinking is emphasized here.
You may not agree with some (or all) of the suggestions, and that's absolutely fine. Different horses are suited to different courses, you know.
Anyway, so be it.
Goalkeeper – Jordan Pickford
It’s really a bit of a pick on yourself. Neither Southgate's trustees nor the other goalkeepers impressed him enough to evict him.
Always performed well in an England shirt and was very used to playing in high-pressure situations for his country. Just what you need in a tournament opener…a guy who can handle the situation.
defense
I'm going to hit four on the back. Although three (or five, if you count the full-backs) could be deployed if necessary, it felt like four players would work better.
Kyle Walker Occupying the rear right position. Similar to Pickford, he is a reliable outlet and remains one of the best right-backs in the world. His fearsome pace is a nuisance to opposing attackers, and his all-around defensive presence is outstanding.his Manchester City teammates John Stones will line up to city neighbors Harry Maguire. Stones, who is in good form, is England's best centre-back, and Maguire has basically had a good season for club and country. He is also very important to the way Southgate plays.
Luke Shaw Finished the bottom four. England's best player in this option by a wide margin. Ben Chilwell hasn't been good enough this season and still appears to be struggling with fitness. Kieran Trippier can fill the spot, as can Joe Gomez if replaced, but it would be foolish not to start your best left-back.
midfield
I have truly ascended Kobe Minu Hype train, there's nothing you can do about it. The 18-year-old has impressed in two appearances during the recent break and appears to have shown appreciation for the man who will inevitably partner him in a deeper role, Declan Rice.
Manu has been in fine form for a struggling Manchester United side, and at just 18 years old he looks to be the most mature and composed player on the team. ridiculous. As for Rice, he is one of the best players in the world at his position and has transformed into a true leader.
I could honestly write an article about what a great Jude Bellingham Yes, but you all know that. All in all, play him Gareth. Put him in the No. 10 position and start him.
forward
Perhaps one of the most difficult positions to nail is the left wing position. Anthony Gordon has been fantastic this season and Marcus Rashford is the favorite for the role.You could even go with Cole Palmer, but for me it's Phil Foden.
Technically he is England's best player. While he's not a natural fit for football, he's too good not to include. Without Bellingham he'd be at No. 10, but sometimes you have to make a case for shoehorning a player in and that's exactly what I've done here.
On the right hand side is Bukayo Saka. Need I say more? He was voted England Player of the Year two years in a row.When he's fit, he's the first name on Southgate's team sheet, which makes me happy Harry Kane. Record goalscorers, captains, leaders, legends. name on the form.
This is England's full starting XI should Starting against Serbia:
- Jordan Pickford
- Kyle Walker
- John Stones
- Harry Maguire
- Luke Shaw
- Kobe Minu
- Declan Rice
- Jude Bellingham
- Phil Foden
- Harry Kane
- Bukayo Saka.
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