England vs France: Predicted Lineup For The Three Lions
England might have lost their previous friendly encounter against Spain, but the only story that anyone will be interested in is how the French will be affected by the devastating attacks that killed more than a hundred people in Paris a few days ago.
France were playing at the time when a bomb went off just outside the stadium and French international Lassana Diara was hit by personal tragedy as one of his relatives was killed in the attack. With such an emotional backdrop to this friendly game, the result might not be the most important thing. We look ahead to this tie and predict the starting lineup for the English.
Jack Butland
Joe Hart might be the number one goalkeeper but playing Jack Butland, who has had an amazing season for Stoke, should be on the cards for Roy Hodgson.
Nathaniel Clyne
While Nathaniel Clyne hasn’t turned the world on its head with his performances for Liverpool, he is one of the most consistent right-backs in the league and should get a chance in this game after missing out on the last one.
John Stones
It was a surprise to see Hodgson keep out John stones despite the Evertonian having a stellar season; this should however be the game where Stones plays with Smalling as this should be the preferred partnership for the Euros.
Chris Smalling
The best centre back in the league, Chris Smalling is slowly proving all the doubters wrong with his performances for Manchester United and should be the first choice in the central defensive partnership for Roy Hodgson.
Ryan Bertrand
Probably the best left-back in the Premier League at the moment, Bertrand might not have been able to cut it at Chelsea but he is doing exceptionally well for Southampton and under Ronald Koeman has gone from strength to strength.
Dele Alli
A star in the making, Dele Alli has been exceptional for Tottenham this season and with Michael Carrick injured for this tie, could this be the chance for the youngster to grab one of the midfield slots for his own?
Fabian Delph
Moving from Villa to Manchester City hasn’t really gone that well for Delph but with many players injured, he should keep his place in the starting lineup for the national side in this friendly match.
Ross Barkley
Barkley has been one of the breakout stars from the Premier League this season and his exploits for Everton have not gone unnoticed. The attacker should continue in his role for the national side as they prepare to face France.
Adam Lallana
Adam Lallana needs to do more if he is to keep his place in the English team. He is one of the most technically gifted players in the Premier League and should keep his place for now due to injuries to Walcott and Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Raheem Sterling
The Manchester City attacker played the last game against Spain and should keep his place in the starting XI given that many English players are already out with injury.
Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney came on in the second half against Spain but should get a start against France. Rooney hasn’t been firing on all cylinders but needs game time if he is to get better for the season and the upcoming Euros.
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