England face Italy in the first round of their EURO qualification campaign. Ironically, they come up against the team they last faced in European competition, Italy, who beat them in the last final via a heartbreaking penalty shootout. This post will run through my England predicted lineup.
Although qualification matches are nowhere near the same magnitude as a final, Gareth Southgate will be seeking revenge. Italy didn’t qualify for the recent World Cup, so they’ll take these qualifiers seriously.
England predicted lineup to face Italy
Without further ado, here’s the lineup Gareth Southgate should field.
GK: Aaron Ramsdale – With Nick Pope now out of the starting lineup, the number one spot should go to Aaron Ramsdale. In terms of quality he is far, far superior to Pickford.
RB: Kyle Walker – With the options available to Southgate, Kyle Walker is the better right-back and has plenty of England experience. Still, I wouldn’t be mad if Trippier started.
CB: John Stones – The best centre back available to Southgate.
CB: Harry Maguire – Awful for Manchester United, amazing for England. Slabhead must get the start here.
LB: Luke Shaw – Same reasoning as Walker. He’s the best option and has been in good form for United.
CDM: Declan Rice – A real asset to this England side and one of a few world-class players, Declan Rice will start in this match.
CM: Jude Bellingham – Another opportunity for Jurgen Klopp to watch Jude in action. He was the best player at the World Cup and is developing more and more each day.
CM: Jordan Henderson – A great relationship with Bellingham and he’s more passionate than ever when he plays for his country.
RW: Bukayo Saka – He’s with the A-listers now, but he still loves playing for England. Arsenal being top of the league is a testament to this young man’s mentality.
ST: Harry Kane – Mr. Reliable. His last match for England resulted in heart-break, but he’s having the season of his life.
LW: Jack Grealish – Finishing off the England predicted lineup is the heart-throb himself, Jack Grealish. He’ll provide creativity from out wide.
What’s your score prediction for Italy vs England?