Gareth Southgate could be tempted to shuffle the pack against Ukraine, particularly if England fans get their way.
The Three Lions got their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign off to an excellent start with a 2-1 victory over Italy in Naples, a result that will go down particularly well given its the first win over the Italians since 1961.
Next up is Ukraine on Sunday, a clash that is live on talkSPORT, where the Three Lions will be hoping that they can secure maximum returns before the domestic seasons resumes.
England are certainly seen as favourites for the clash at Wembley, leading to suggestion that Southgate could give some of his squad players a chance to impress on home soil.
So who would fans like to see starting against Ukraine? talkSPORT.com takes a look…
Southgate has already admitted that his main focus for the match will be securing three points to help with qualification for the Euros, meaning that he won’t be naming a weakened side for the sake of it.
That said, England have some excellent options.
Aaron Ramsdale has been in stunning form for Premier League leaders Arsenal this term – in fact, some would argue that he’s been better than England number one Jordan Pickford, meaning that he could be given a chance to show what he can do in a competitive match.
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Rotation won’t be the order of the day for Southgate, meaning that John Stones and Harry Maguire could stay put in the centre of defence, however the left and right-back spots are up for grabs.
Kieran Trippier has been wonderful for Newcastle this term, while with Luke Shaw suspended following his sending off against Italy, Southgate has hinted that Ben Chilwell could get a chance.
The England boss told talkSPORT: “Well, he’s ready. There’s obviously a bit of an adaptation in that he’s playing at wing-back and that’s a different requirement but the great thing for him is that he’s physically in good condition.
“Ben’s a very good athlete and when you’ve been injured you can get subsequent injuries which, in the end, is what ruled him out of the World Cup.
“He’s now getting a run of games with his club, he’s in good form and has really good quality with the ball higher up the pitch so he’s very much in our thinking.”
Declan Rice is growing in influence and even bagged a goal against Italy so he’s likely to start, while wonderkid Jude Bellingham can do no wrong at the moment, meaning that he’s bound to be given a chance to start under the arch at Wembley.
One player who fans are desperate to see more of though, is James Maddison.
While Leicester are embroiled in a relegation battle, the midfielder has really impressed with nine goals and five assists so far this term, leading fans to call for his creativity in the middle of the park.
Bukayo Saka simply has to start on the right flank thanks to his stunning form for club and country, while Phil Foden will be hoping to be named in the starting XI following his 12-minute cameo in Naples.
In attack, Southgate has a big decision to make.
Harry Kane enjoyed a glorious night against Italy as he became England’s all-time top goalscorer with an effort from the penalty spot, leading to celebrations in the dressing room.
While clearly supporting his teammate, Ivan Toney will be desperate to get in on the action as he awaits his first cap for the Three Lions despite receiving a call up prior to the World Cup.
The Brentford forward has been excellent this term, scoring 17 goals and providing five assists, leading Southgate to discuss his perfomances prior to the match.
He told talkSPORT: “He’s here because we believe in him and we’re ready to use him.
“We haven’t brought another centre forward and he’s impressed us with the way he’s trained, the way he’s worked and his finishing looks really good.
“So he’s also in a very good moment that we won’t hesitate to use him.”
Here’s how England could line up against Ukraine should Southgate decide to shuffle the pack.
