England vs Croatia: Match preview, England's predicted XI | UEFA Nations League 2018-19
England is set to host Croatia in their last group game of the UEFA Nations League 2018-19. Southgate's B-team against the USA elucidated the depth and talent his side possesses. England will be eyeing a revenge win after Croatia knocked them out in the semi-final of the just concluded World Cup.
The Three lions play this game after a comfortable 3-0 win against the USA, whereas Croatia stunned Spain with a last minute winner.
This group is hotly poised, as all the three teams have the probability of getting relegated. Southgate is highly likely to make some wholesale changes after resting many first-team players against the USA.
England's predicted XI
Defence
Jordan Pickford will be back between the sticks again. After sitting out the first game, Kyle Walker could make his way into the first team once again. His club-mate, John Stones, is also tipped to start.
In the absence of Harry Maguire, Liverpool's Gomez should be pairing up with Stones. Gomez is having an amazing season, and with Maguire injured, he has a good chance to grab some international caps.
Ben Chilwell has played really well since his debut. He is defensively sound, and has good attacking impetus. Luke Shaw might have to settle for a place on the bench again.
Midfield
Jordan Henderson and Ross Barkley could form the midfield partnership. Ruben Loftus cheek is also another name who could give a fight to Barkley's spot. Fabian Delph and Harry Winks started in the previous game, but their participation in this game is highly unlikely, unless they come on from the bench.
Eric Dier is another player who could start, but Gareth Southgate would not want to play with two holding midfielders. Henderson will sit between the centre-backs, giving them protection, whereas Ross Barkley could act as a catalyst between the defence and attack.
Attack
Sorry Wilson, but this is Harry Kane's spot. Callum Wilson was hugely impressive in his debut against the USA, deservedly scoring a goal, but Harry Kane will be coming back into the XI for this big game.
Raheem Sterling is in sublime form, and without doubt, he has been one of the best players this season. His recent goal for the Three Lions after a couple of years will only boost his confidence.
Jadon Sancho played the full 90 minutes when he earned his first starting berth with England. This teenager is bound for glory, and his recent form has been nothing less than astonishing.
There is no reason for Gareth Southgate to drop him unless he wants to give the young lad a rest. Who plays behind Harry Kane is still a concern, and it's a fight between Dele Alli and Jesse Lingard.
Alli had a swift performance in the last game, but Lingard's stunning goal might give him an edge. Lingard's involvement would also mean that the attacking midfield trio of Sterling, Lingard, and Sancho will continuously swap positions, rather than being static.