Raheem Sterling is almost certain to start England’s World Cup opener against Iran due to the formation Gareth Southgate will reportedly use.
According to the Daily Mail, Southgate has informed his squad that the 3-4-3 system deployed at other tournaments remains the primary option in Qatar.
If this is the case, there will seemingly only be one more space in the attack to fill alongside Harry Kane and, more than likely, Sterling.
The Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur forwards have led the line for the Three Lions together at the last two tournaments with great success.
They were both on target at the European Championships last summer, with Kane winning the Golden Boot at the previous World Cup thanks – in part – to his attacking patterner.
Is Sterling a shoe-in starter for the World Cup?
Sterling’s domestic form for Chelsea might make other managers consider his position in the side.
Yet, the 27-year-old has rarely let Southgate down when it matters most.
Permitted the Stamford Bridge star does start against Iran on Monday in a 3-4-3 system, one last space is up for grabs in the front line.
Phil Foden would probably be the general England fans’ favourite to take the remaining spot.
Chelsea supporters will throw Mason Mount’s name into the ring, another who has the complete faith of his international coach.
Mount started the Euros final together as a forward with Kane and Sterling in a 3-4-3.
His energy and dynamism make him a nightmare for opponents when pressurising on the front foot.
Conor Gallagher possesses similar skills, but the midfielder is not quite front of the England queue just yet.
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