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Gareth Southgate's reported starting XI for World Cup clash against USA

Gareth Southgate's reported starting XI for World Cup clash against USA

England forward Harry Kane will start, according to reports.

Gareth Southgate has decided to stick with the starting XI that knocked six goals past Iran for their second World Cup game against USA, according to reports.

The Three Lions will face Gregg Berhalter's side on Friday night at the Al Bayt Stadium with a fully fit Harry Kane, say The Athletic.

Kane, who injured his right ankle during England's World Cup opener against Iran, took part in training on Wednesday following a scan.

Once again, nine of the eleven players who started in their European Championship final defeat to Italy last summer will start, including Raheem Sterling, Harry Maguire and Jude Bellingham.

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, a constant in Southgate's plans, will feature between the sticks against Iran ahead of Nick Pope and Aaron Ramsdale.

The back four will again consist of Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, John Stones and Kieran Trippier, while Southgate has again opted for a midfield three of Mason Mount, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice.

Finally, Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling will play alongside captain Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka in the front three, with the likes of Phil Foden and Jack Grealish missing out again.

Thoughts on the line-up?

Image credit: Alamy
Image credit: Alamy

England boss Gareth Southgate says his team will not "underestimate" the United States, who could only secure a point in their Group B clash against Wales after a late Gareth Bale penalty cancelled out Timothy Weah's opener.

“Tomorrow we have to try to make history. We are good at talking highly of ourselves as a nation on the basis of very little evidence,” he said.

“We will play a highly motivated team and have huge respect for our opposition. We know the quality they have and we will have to be at our best.

“The risk is to think that because we played well the other day we can take it into the next game. I don't think we will underestimate the USA team at all.”

Southgate expects a more challenging game against Friday's opponents.

“Tomorrow's game will be very different to the first match. They are a team that press the ball really well,” he said.

“With respect, a level of player which has experience of playing in top European leagues. In terms of tomorrow it is not going to be a game in the pattern of the previous one.”

Featured Image Credit: Alamy

Topics: England, Gareth Southgate, Football World Cup, USA