Jamie Carragher picks the England XI he expects Thomas Tuchel to choose for first match in 2025

Jamie Carragher has predicted who Thomas Tuchel will pick when it comes to his first starting line-up as England manager.

Tuchel, who was previously linked with the Manchester United job, will take charge of the Three Lions from January 1 onwards after he reached an agreement with the FA on an 18-month contract.

The 51-year-old later revealed that pushing a 'hugely talented' squad to success is what motivated him to take on the role as head coach.

When asked what he thinks of the current crop of talent in England, he said: “The potential is obviously huge. But for me, even more importantly, the character of the players is one of a kind."

Tuchel added: “It was amazing for me to see the character, determination, grit and hunger that it takes to perform at this level. To have the chance to work with such a talented group makes me excited."

Tuchel would later claim that England have "everything to win titles" but when push comes to shove, what team will he pick for his first game in charge?

Speaking on Monday Night Football, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher named what he anticipates to be Tuchel's first starting line-up – and he explained why Harry Kane may no longer be the driving force.

"Gareth Southgate’s main stays were (Harry) Maguire, (John) Stones, (Declan) Rice, and (Harry) Kane," he said.

"For me, it was Kane’s team in the summer. This is not his team anymore, even though he has a great relationship (with them), the team has to be for the young attacking players."

Carragher would later explain why Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who was left out of Gareth Southgate's squad for Euro 2024, is the perfect centre-back to partner John Stones.

"I would look at Trent, Stones, and I think (Jarrad) Branthwaite, the left foot and size and presence," he continued after going with Jordan Pickford in goal.

"(Levi) Colwill again, Rice, Bellingham here a little bit deeper, (Bukayo) Saka has to play on the right wing, Cole Palmer has to play there."

Image credit: Sky Sports/Monday Night Football

Carragher later predicted a place in the side for Newcastle's Anthony Gordon, who would provide some much-needed pace in Tuchel's side.

"I'd play (Anthony) Gordon if Kane is still the best, he needs pace around him. Phil Foden still has not done enough in an England shirt," he added.

"What I would say with Bellingham is - is he good enough to play as a centre midfielder in a two and defend with Rice? You morph that into a different formation with the ball. Rice comes in, Bellingham in, the front three. That would be the sort of setup I would like England to go with.

"Harry Kane has to either stay up front or pick someone who has pace. He cannot come in. Will someone have taken his place by America? It will be right on the edge."