England predicted lineup vs United States - World Cup

England are looking to seal qualification
England are looking to seal qualification / Alex Pantling/GettyImages
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England had a perfect start to their World Cup campaign with a 6-2 victory over Iran and can book their place in the next round with a victory over the United States on Friday.

Gareth Southgate opted for an attacking lineup first time out and got all the rewards he could have dreamed of, and the boss will look to keep things that way heading into this famous grudge match.

Here's the lineup the boss could go for.


England predicted lineup vs United States (4-3-3)

Jude Bellingham
Bellingham shone against Iran / Alex Livesey - Danehouse/GettyImages

GK: Jordan Pickford - Pickford is Southgate's number one and will hope to get the job done here so he can sit out the final game.

RB: Kieran Trippier - Kyle Walker should be close to a return to fitness but he may not be ready to start just yet. Expect some minutes off the bench for the Manchester City man.

CB: Harry Maguire - Maguire was dealing with an illness against Iran but was back in training on Tuesday and should be ready for another start.

CB: John Stones - Southgate's preferred defensive duo did their jobs against Iran and there's a good chance they'll retain their spots.

LB: Luke Shaw - A glorious assist for Jude Bellingham's opener should keep Shaw's place in the squad for now.

DM: Declan Rice - Rice put in a sensational performance against Iran and Southgate will be keen to maintain that momentum here.

CM: Jude Bellingham - Speaking of sensational performances, Bellingham already feels like he could be one of England's most important players this tournament. He's crucial to this team's attacking push.

CM: Phil Foden - Mason Mount did the ugly work well against Iran but might get a rest here in favour of Foden.

RW: Bukayo Saka - Saka netted twice against Iran and was rewarded with a nice early rest, highlighting his importance to the team.

ST: Harry Kane - After picking up a knock to his ankle, Kane was back in training on Tuesday (unlike Callum Wilson) so expect him to start once again.

LW: Raheem Sterling - Marcus Rashford did everything he could to force his way into the starting lineup but Sterling remains one of Southgate's leaders and will almost certainly retain his place.