England play their second Euro 2020 match on Friday night and face their enemies in Scotland at Wembley.
Gareth Southgate’s men got off to a perfect start on Sunday, knocking out a 1-0 winner over Croatia with the permission of a Raheem Sterling goal. That win was not enough to give them the top spot on the way to match day two, even though the Three Lions are really in pole position to advance to the group stage as Group D winners.
They face a Scottish side who showed promise in their opening match against the Czech Republic, but eventually fell to a 2-0 defeat thanks to Patrik Schick’s somewhat ridiculous stay. The loss means they need a result against England, which should create an entertaining clash.
Here’s England XI to start.
Tyrone Mings may be in line for a fresh start / Robin Jones / Getty Images
Jordan Pickford (GK) – Remains still reliable for Southgate and England, and after keeping a clean sheet last time, it will appear again between the sticks.Kieran Trippier (RB) – Kyle Walker’s pass to Croatia should open the door for someone else, although it will probably come to the left back with Trippier moving over.John Stones (CB) – Played well on Sunday and looked comfortable – Scotland will do well to get past the Manchester City man.
Tyrone Mings (CB) – Has started the tournament in good shape and if Harry Maguire requires a little more time to recover, Mings is a shoo-in. Luke Shaw (LB) – When Walker falls on the bench after an irregular display against Croatia, it will be Shaw’s chance to claim the starting left-back after a great season with his club.
Kalvin Phillips was exceptional against Croatia / Robin Jones / Getty Images
Kalvin Phillips (CM) – This man has to start. An all-round sensation against Croatia and even got a nickname from it. ‘The Yorkshire Pirlo’ could be an integral part of all England’s success this summer.
Declan Rice (CM) – Was not as inspiring as his midfield partner but had a solid outing on Sunday and, if Jordan Henderson is still not up to 90 minutes, Rice would start again.
Mason Mount (AM) – Always capable of being the spark. He has become crucial for club and country, especially with his versatility – he starts against Scotland.
Phil Foden has had many comparisons between Paul Gascoigne – especially since he died in the hair / Robin Jones / Getty Images
Phil Foden (RW) – He has the ability and he has the hair. The stage is set for Foden to recreate a bit of Gazza’s magic. Let it happen, please Phil.Harry Kane (ST) – Nowhere near the standards that we – or even he has come to expect from him last time, but contrary to what he says himself, he is unthinkable and will always be a talisman.
Raheem Sterling (LW) – Scored the only goal in his own backyard to make the whole country bonkers on Sunday, and that alone would give him a fresh start this time.
