England kicks off the Thomas Tuchel era and their World Cup qualifying campaign against Albania on Friday at Wembley. The German coach was announced as the Three Lions boss in October and officially took charge on January 1st.
As always, several Premier League players have been called up for the March international break. However, Chelsea's Cole Palmer has withdrawn from the squad due to an injury that also kept him out against Arsenal last Sunday.
Tuchel’s preferred system during his time at Chelsea was a three-at-the-back formation, typically a 3-4-2-1 setup, which guided them to their second Champions League title. However, during his tenure at Bayern Munich and for much of his managerial career, he has favored a back four.
Among the players selected for England this March, there is a noticeable lack of natural wing-backs. Deploying a system with three center-backs and wing-backs would also mean sacrificing either wingers or attacking midfielders, both of which England has in abundance.
England's predicted lineup vs Albania in the World Cup qualifier (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
No matter who the manager is, Pickford’s place remains secure. Even though three other goalkeepers were called up, none come close to his level or experience.
Right-back: Reece James
Several players can compete for the right-back position among Tuchel’s selections, but Chelsea captain James is one of the best in the game when fit. Despite playing midfield for his club, the 25-year-old is expected to start in his natural position.
Center-back: Marc Guéhi
The Crystal Palace skipper has been a regular in England’s recent squads. His versatility and leadership make him a strong candidate to retain his place in the starting XI.
Center-back: Levi Colwill
Among the left-footed center-backs in the squad, the options are limited to Levi Colwill and Dan Burn, who has received his first-ever call-up. Given Colwill’s prior experience with England, he is the likely starter.
Left-back: Myles Lewis-Skelly
The Arsenal teenager is the only recognized left-back in the squad for the qualifiers. While Tino Livramento and Kyle Walker can fill in at left-back if needed, they are more likely to be used off the bench.
Central defensive midfield: Jordan Henderson
Henderson’s inclusion in the squad was somewhat surprising, but his experience and leadership qualities are highly valued by Tuchel, making him a likely starter.
Central defensive midfield: Declan Rice
A mainstay in the team, Rice’s ability to defend and carry the ball forward will be vital for England.
READ MORE: England vs Albania - World Cup qualifier: TV channel, prediction, team news
Right-wing: Jarrod Bowen
The West Ham captain has been one of the most consistent performers in the league over recent seasons. With Bukayo Saka sidelined and Phil Foden struggling for form, Bowen is expected to earn another start.
Attacking Midfield: Jude Bellingham
With Cole Palmer unavailable, there aren’t many players better suited to the No. 10 role than Bellingham. The Real Madrid star’s knack for scoring goals and arriving in the right positions will be crucial as England builds toward next year’s World Cup.
Left-wing: Anthony Gordon
Marcus Rashford has previously starred in this role, and although he remains in the squad and has improved at Aston Villa, Gordon has been one of the league’s standout performers over the past 18 months. He is expected to start.
Center-forward: Harry Kane
It's a straightforward selection. The England captain is one of the best strikers in the world and is in red-hot form, with 32 goals in 37 matches this season for Bayern Munich.
England’s Predicted Lineup vs. Albania (4-2-3-1): Pickford; James, Guéhi, Colwill, Lewis-Skelly; Henderson, Rice; Bowen, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.