Predicted England XI: Aston Villa and Liverpool aces start

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England take on the Czech Republic this evening knowing that a win will see them win Group D. Following last night’s results in Group B and Group C, the Three Lions are already through to the last 16.

Gareth Southgate’s men were held to a 0-0 draw against Scotland on Friday. It was a disappointing night for England and they’ll hope to flex their credentials tonight.

The Czechs have looked pretty good so far in the tournament. Jaroslav Silhavy has overseen a win against Scotland and a 1-1 draw against Croatia last time out.

As a result, tonight’s game looks like another tricky one. England will need to be ready and Southgate owes the nation a performance.

Ahead of the clash, we looked at the team the England boss could pick now that qualification for the knockout stages is assured.

In goal and back four

England had Jordan Pickford to thank for preserving their point on Friday. His superb save from Stephen O’Donnell kept Scotland at bay and he’ll start against the Czechs.

Reece James fluffed his lines against the Tartan Army and wasn’t at his attacking best. With that in mind, Kieran Trippier could return.

With England already through, Southgate could choose to unleash Harry Maguire. He’s yet to feature at Euro 2020 just yet but this could be the chance to get him some minutes ahead of tougher tests.

John Stones has done little wrong in the first two contests and should keep his place. At left-back, Luke Shaw is likely to continue with Ben Chilwell isolating.

Midfield

Like Maguire, Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson hasn’t played in the tournament yet either. He could earn a chance to start here and get into his stride.

If he does play, it seems likely that Declan Rice will make way. The West Ham man will probably drop out, allowing Kalvin Phillips to keep his place.

Both players have done a job so far but if Henderson is to play, the £140,000-a-week Reds man is probably better in the double pivot with the Leeds man.

In attack

Southgate has already confirmed that Harry Kane will lead the line again. The Tottenham star is yet to get a shot on target at this tournament and has come under fire.

One change could be enforced upon Southgate. Mason Mount joins Chilwell in isolation and that could mean a reshuffle in the No.10 role.

It could see Phil Foden switch to play behind Kane, with Jack Grealish earning a chance to start the game.

Raheem Sterling finished Friday’s game as the captain. As a result, Southgate clearly fancies him, although Jadon Sancho could earn a start with qualification guaranteed.

The Dortmund man is yet to play a single minute at the tournament. He did, however, score 16 goals and claim 20 assists during 2020/21.

Here is how the England team could line-up this evening: