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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Tom Blow

England predicted line-up vs Wales as Gareth Southgate makes call on Phil Foden role

Gareth Southgate is expected to recall Phil Foden for England's crucial World Cup game against neighbours Wales on Tuesday night.

The Three Lions must avoid a heavy defeat to Robert Page's side at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium to progress to the knockout stages of the tournament in Qatar. A victory for England would secure top spot in Group B and, in theory, an easier last-16 clash.

Wales must beat Southgate's team to have any chance of keeping their World Cup dream alive. Gareth Bale and co also need Iran's game against the United States to end in a draw, as they can only leapfrog England if they beat them by four or more goals.

Southgate is under pressure to recall Foden after England's dismal performance against the US on Friday. The Three Lions created just a handful of chances at the Al Bayt Stadium, with Southgate leaving the Manchester City talent on the bench.

The England boss is set to give Foden his first start of the tournament in favour of Bukayo Saka, who got the nod against Iran and the US. Saka was superb against Iran eight days ago - scoring a brace in the 6-2 victory - but failed to make an impact against the US.

Southgate is also poised give Jordan Henderson the nod in central midfield ahead of Jude Bellingham and Kalvin Phillips. Bellingham started England's first two World Cup fixtures, but the experienced Liverpool skipper is set to play in the deciding match.

Who do you think should play for England against Wales? Let us know in the comments below!

Southgate is expected to stick with a 4-3-3 formation. Jordan Pickford is almost certain to play in goal, with a back four of Kieran Trippier, John Stones, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw in front of him. Ben White is an injury doubt after missing training on Monday.

James Maddison and Kyle Walker are fit and will be part of the squad. In terms of midfield, Henderson is likely to be joined by stalwart Declan Rice, with Mason Mount continuing to play in the No.10 role. Harry Kane is fit to lead England's attack once again.

The final spot in the starting XI is expected to be given to Raheem Sterling. Southgate is poised to name an experienced line-up to avoid a big defeat to Wales. A 4-0 defeat is not impossible, as Hungary defeated England by that score-line at Molineux in June.

Wales, meanwhile, will be without Wayne Hennessey after the Nottingham Forest goalkeeper was sent off in their 2-0 defeat to Iran on Friday. Page's side have picked up just a point so far after drawing their opening game 1-1 against the US eight days ago.

Joe Allen is poised to start after making his World Cup debut as a substitute against Iran. The Swansea midfielder missed Wales' opening game through injury. Manager Page has no other fitness doubts, with veteran Bale expected to lead the side once again.

England predicted line-up against Wales: Jordan Pickford; Kieran Trippier, John Stones, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw; Jordan Henderson, Declan Rice, Mason Mount, Raheem Sterling, Harry Kane, Phil Foden.

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