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Football London
Football London
Sport
Josh Holland

England confirmed team news vs Iran: Gareth Southgate hands Bukayo Saka first England start

England boss Gareth Southgate has named Bukayo Saka in his starting XI on his World Cup debut for their Group B against Iran today.

The Arsenal forward has been named in the Three Lions attack alongside Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane, meaning there's no place for Phil Foden in the side.

Southgate has lined his side up in a 4-3-3 formation with Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham and Mason Mount taking up the places in the middle of the park. In defence, Kieran Trippier and Luke Shaw have been named as the right-back and left-back with Harry Maguire and John Stones completing England's defence.

READ MORE: England announce OneLove armband U-turn after FIFA confirm Harry Kane yellow card threat

Jordan Pickford resumes in goal for England, despite concerns over his form with Everton. The Three Lions possess quality off the bench with Foden, Jack Grealish, Marcus Rashford, Jordan Henderson and Callum Wilson all waiting for their chance.

James Maddison misses out altogether due to concerns over his fitness. The Leicester City midfielder has trained this week but will sit out the opener as a precaution to ensure he's fit for upcoming games.

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