England are set for their stiffest test at the Qatar World Cup – and Gareth Southgate could tinker with his team in a bid to pass with flying colours against Les Bleus.
The Three Lions boss has yet to name an unchanged XI in this tournament and that looks likely to continue against France as he hatches a plan to stop Golden Boot leader Kylian Mbappe, who might be a fitness doubt after missing training on Tuesday.
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A place in the last four of the World Cup is on the line, so which England players could be tasked with starting against the reigning champions?
You can find our predicted team for the World Cup quarter-final clash below, otherwise the latest England v France odds are on the Paddy Power website and Paddy Power app.
READ MORE ON QATAR 2022: World Cup TV schedule | World Cup live stream free | World Cup top scorers | World Cup results
The big question is whether England will revert to the three-at-the-back formation or stick with the 4-3-3 system that has worked a treat so far in this tournament.
Sure, football’s a team game but Southgate could be tempted to double up on French phenom Mbappe, who has bagged four goals at Qatar 2022 including a brilliant brace against Poland in the last 16.
That would see a recall for Kieran Trippier at right-wing back as Kyle Walker shuffles across to play on the right-hand side of the three-man defence. John Stones and Harry Maguire would fill the other two spots in the backline as Luke Shaw starts at left-wing back.
Jordan Pickford has kept three clean sheets on the spin and made a crucial save early doors against Senegal. The Everton stopper is nailed on to continue between the sticks for the France fixture.
Jude Bellingham delivered a midfield masterclass against Senegal and is likely to be partnered in the engine room by Declan Rice, who has overcome illness. Jordan Henderson produced one of his best displays in an England shirt in the 3-0 win over Senegal but would make way for the formation change.
Bukayo Saka netted his third goal of the tournament in the Senegal romp and should continue on the right wing as his defensive nous will probably be needed. Phil Foden created two goals in the last 16 and is fancied to get the nod on the other flank.
Harry Kane finally got off the mark with England’s second goal against Senegal to move to within one strike of Wayne Rooney’s national record. The skipper is certain to start upfront.
England Predicted Lineup vs France
Jordan Pickford; Kyle Walker, John Stones, Harry Maguire; Kieran Trippier, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Luke Shaw; Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, Phil Foden
England v France Tips
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