England predicted starting 11 vs Germany

England face arch enemy Germany in the last 16 of Euro 2020, with their clash at Wembley arguably the standout game of the round.

Gareth Southgate's side progressed through to the knockout stages unbeaten and despite criticism from many over the team's style and perceived negativity, they did not concede a goal.

Victory here for the Three Lions would open up a huge opportunity to go far in the tournament, with the half of the draw England are in favourable on paper. But Germany must not be underestimated despite their up and down form, and history tells you that Joachim Low's side are always primed and ready for the big occasion.

England are expected to return to the three-man defence that led them to the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup, and here's who looks set to start the game.

England predicted starting 11 vs Germany - Euro 2020

1. Goalkeeper & defenders

Harry Maguire came through 90 minutes versus the Czech Republic at Wembley on Tuesday night / Robin Jones/Getty Images

Jordan Pickford (GK) - Yet to concede a goal at Euro 2020, Pickford hasn't put a foot wrong so far and has more than justified Gareth Southgate's faith in him.

Kyle Walker (CB) - One of Southgate's more senior players, Walker is set to flex his versatility once more by returning to a central role.

John Stones (CB) - Has looked pretty assured so far and barring any late fitness concerns, is a shoo-in starter.

Harry Maguire (CB) - Came through 90 minutes against the Czech Republic unscathed, offering a different option when playing out from the back. Leadership and communication skills will be key.

2. Midfielders

Jordan Henderson will be in contention to start versus Germany having worked his way back to fitness / Robin Jones/Getty Images

Kieran Trippier (RWB) - We haven't seen Trippier since his outing as a left-back in the first game, but he's expected to return to his usual right wing-back spot here.

Declan Rice (CM) - We're yet to have any indication of who will start in central midfield, but Rice will be a likely candidate. He has recycled possession neatly in midfield, but must be more disciplined and willing to progress the ball where possible.

Jordan Henderson (CM) - Kalvin Phillips has started all three of England's Euro 2020 games so far, but the experience - and return to fitness - of Henderson could be vital in combating the threats of Toni Kroos, Ilkay Gundogan and co.

Luke Shaw (LWB) - A superb Premier League campaign has opened the door for Shaw to become England's first choice left-back, aided even further by Ben Chilwell's isolation because of COVID protocols.

3. Forwards

Sterling has scored England's two goals at Euro 2020 / Robin Jones/Getty Images

Bukayo Saka (RW) - Saka's man of the match performance against the Czech Republic looks to have earned him another start, although Phil Foden could return instead.

Harry Kane (ST) - England's best striker by about a mile, although you wouldn't think it given the way he's started the competition. Desperately needs a goal to kick-start his tournament.

Raheem Sterling (LW) - Faced heavy criticism going into the tournament but has scored England's only two goals so far. Has faded in the second half of games but offers a huge threat when on song.

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