England start their World Cup campaign on Monday and Gareth Southgate is expected to name an attacking lineup against Iran.
Much has been said about whether the Three Lions boss will play a back four rather than a back three, with the latter of those the option he's used the most since 2016. Nevertheless, Southgate is expected to go on the offensive against Iran and name a rather attacking lineup - according to reports at least.
The Telegraph, via The Express, have stated that Arsenal's Bukayo Saka is set to start over Manchester City's Phil Foden in the front three of a 4-3-3. Harry Maguire will start at centre-back despite his struggles for Manchester United whilst John Stones is expected to partner him at the back.
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Kyle Walker remains unavailable as he fights back to full fitness after undergoing groin surgery in October. As a result, Kieran Trippier is said to have got the nod at right-back. Luke Shaw is set to start on the left-side of defence. Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham and Mason Mount are expected to start in the midfield, whilst Raheem Sterling and captain Harry Kane partner Saka up top. Jordan Pickford will continue to be England's first-choice goalkeeper.
Although there's undoubtedly excitement ahead of the game, sadly, the match has already been marred by controversy after the FA announced that England, along with six other European nations due to wear the OneLove armband at the tournament, will no longer do so.
FIFA threatened to impose sanctions on those who were planning to make the anti-discrimination message clear in Qatar, but when it became evident that sporting sanctions would follow an initial fine - including a booking for Kane - England decided to prioritise competition and performance.
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