England could make several changes for tonight’s Nations League clash with Czech Republic as Thomas Tuchel looks for a response following defeat to Spain.
The Three Lions travel to Prague after opening their campaign with a 3-2 defeat at Wembley, while Czechia also began with a loss, going down 2-1 against Croatia.
Konsa and O’Reilly doubts for England
Tuchel has two potential injury concerns, with Ezri Konsa and Nico O’Reilly both following individual training programmes on Monday.
The England manager admitted he was “not sure” whether either defender would be available.
The other 22 players trained normally before travelling to Prague, while Lewis Hall’s appearance alongside Tuchel at the pre-match press conference could be an indication that the Newcastle United defender is set to start.
James Trafford will remain in goal, with Jordan Pickford expected to return for England’s final two matches of the international break.
Alexander-Arnold could return
One decision facing Tuchel comes at right-back.
Jarell Quansah started against Spain, but Trent Alexander-Arnold is available and could be brought back into the starting XI.
Hall is an obvious option on the opposite flank, particularly if O’Reilly fails to recover.
Changes could also come in midfield after Myles Lewis-Skelly partnered Elliot Anderson against Spain.
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott is pushing for his England debut, while James Garner provides another option.
Bellingham and Gordon pushing to keep places
Tuchel may be reluctant to make major changes further forward after encouraging performances from Jude Bellingham and Anthony Gordon against Spain.
Bukayo Saka is also expected to retain his place, with Harry Kane leading the attack.
Kane will be looking for a response after his penalty against Spain went wrong when he slipped and made a double contact with the ball.
England remain without Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Tino Livramento after they withdrew from the squad through injury or load management.
England predicted XI vs Czech Republic
England (4-2-3-1): Trafford; Alexander-Arnold, Guehi, Branthwaite, Hall; Anderson, Scott; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.
Key Points
- England face Czech Republic after losing 3-2 to Spain.
- Ezri Konsa and Nico O’Reilly are doubts.
- Lewis Hall could start at left-back.
- James Trafford will continue in goal.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold could replace Jarell Quansah.
- Alex Scott is in contention for his England debut.
- Harry Kane is expected to lead the attack.
What’s Next?
England face Czech Republic at the Fortuna Arena in Prague tonight, with kick-off scheduled for 7:45pm BST.
Tuchel will want an immediate response after the Spain defeat and three points would put England’s Nations League campaign back on track.
The match will be shown in the UK on ITV1 and ITVX.
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