England have their Euro 2024 destiny in their hands as they head into a concluding Group C fixture against Slovenia in Cologne.
Gareth Southgate's men have taken four points from their opening two fixtures, which amounts to a two-point lead at the top of the standings.
Qualification for the knockout stages is already guaranteed, while a victory would secure top spot for England and a potentially more favourable last-16 fixture.
But the onus is on Southgate and his talent-rich squad to produce the sort of cohesive performance in line with England's status as one of the pre-tournament favourites —standards they have so far fallen well below in Germany.
Slovenia are similarly unbeaten in the competition and would be heading into this game level on points with their opponents but for a last-gasp equaliser from Luka Jovic in the 1-1 draw against Serbia.
England vs. Slovenia Predicted Lineups, Starting 11, Team News
Trent Alexander-Arnold's deployment as a central midfielder has come in for criticism during England's underwhelming opening to the tournament. Southgate himself described the selection as an "experiment" and it might now have run its course.
Conor Gallagher is favourite to come into the side, which would probably mean a tactical tweak to the 4-3-3 that served England well en route to the quarterfinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, when Jordan Henderson shuttled effectively alongside Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice.
Chelsea's Gallagher is an excellent presser and could inject some much-needed energy into the England side. Kieran Trippier is expected to continue at left-back despite Luke Shaw's return to first-team training, although Joe Gomez and Ezri Konsa are alternatives if the Newcastle United defender's recent calf problem warrants rest.
England predicted (4-3-3, right to left): Pickford (GK) — Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier — Gallagher, Rice, Bellingham — Saka, Kane, Foden.Injured: Shaw, Trippier (doubt)Suspended: None
Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak caused a stir by missing training on Saturday and Slovenia boss Matjaz Kek will hope to have his one genuine world-class performer available.
Midfielders Timi Max Elsnik and Adam Gnezda Cerin suffered knocks during the Serbia game and face late checks.
RB Leipzig sensation Benjamin Sesko is yet to find the net so far at Euro 2024 and must try to ignite a change in fortunes against an England defence that has been miserly up until this point.
Slovenia predicted (4-4-2, right to left): Oblak (GK) — Karnicnik, Brekalo, Bijol, Janza — Stojanovic, Elsnik, Cerin, Mlakar — Sporar, Sesko.Injured: Oblak, Elsnik, Cerin (all doubts)Suspended: None
Source: The Sporting News
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