Aston Villa talisman Jack Grealish is expected to start for England in his final Euro 2020 group stage match against the Czech Republic on Tuesday night, replacing Mason Mount in XI after the Chelsea midfielder was forced to be isolated in the wake of the Scottish match.
Grealish started both of England’s warm-up games but was left on the bench against Croatia and had 27 minutes against Scotland. He showed lightning of what he can bring to the team when he got that chance and Mount’s absence creates a gap in the team.
Fans have demanded that Grealish, who was in top form for an impressive villa 2020/21, be included and give England the attacking spark that has been missing so far.
The Daily Telegraph writes that Grealish will now have the chance to line up as “number 10” against the Czechs, where England must win the match to finish top of Group D.
After starting the two matches so far, Phil Foden could drop out of the team. Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho would be battling to take that spot, although it is said that Southgate could potentially make a shock call and give Arsenal a Bukayo Saka start instead.
Harry Maguire is also expected to return to action in this one. The Manchester United defender has not played since suffering an ankle injury in the Premier League six weeks ago, but this game was earmarked as his comeback before the English tournament actually began.
Harry Maguire has not played since being injured for Man Utd on May 9 / Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA / Getty Images
Kyle Walker may return instead of Reece James on the right back, but Luke Shaw will retain his place on the left. That situation could have been different if Ben Chilwell had been available, but just like Mount, the Chelsea defender is in isolation after being identified as a close contact with Scotland’s Billy Gilmour.
Despite concerns about a lack of creativity and decisive forward fit in midfield, Southgate has been tipped to stick with both Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips.
Potential England team to face the Czech Republic: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Ris, Phillips; Saka, Grealish, Sterling; Kane.
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