Gareth Southgate has made two changes to his England lineup for the crunch Euro 2020 clash against Scotland at Wembley.
The Three Lions got their campaign off to a winning start over Croatia in their opening game, thanks to Raheem Sterling’s goal.
But Southgate has opted to make a couple of minor amendments to his XI as he looks to seal England’s place in the last-16.
Defenders Luke Shaw of Manchester United and Reece James of Chelsea are both set to start the fixture.
That means no place for Kieran Trippier, who is replaced by Shaw on the left side of the back four, while Kyle Walker is also omitted on the right flank.
(Image: Getty Images)
Trippier was a surprise inclusion in the last fixture given he is predominantly right-footed, while Shaw has won his personal battle with fellow left-back Ben Chilwell to get the nod this time round.
Meanwhile, Walker did a decent job of keeping tabs on Croatia dangerman Ivan Perisic, though his ball retention left a lot more to be desired.
James’ inclusion is perhaps a sign that Southgate fancies a more attacking approach against their Scottish counterparts.
Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has proved his fitness for the encounter after recovering from an ankle injury but has only earned a spot on the bench.
Tyrone Mings was impressive in the opening fixture and keeps his place alongside John Stones at the back, with Jordan Pickford continuing in goal.
Southgate has also opted to leave Jordan Henderson among the substitutes despite the Liverpool skipper returning to match fitness.
Much of that could be down to the outstanding performance of Kalvin Phillips in the Croatia clash, where he grabbed an assist for England’s goal.
Phillips is included in the XI at the base of England’s midfield as he partners Declan Rice, with Mason Mount also involved.
That leaves captain Harry Kane leading the line in attack, flanked either side by Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden.
Again Jack Grealish is left among the substitutes despite persistent clamour for the Aston Villa talisman to be included.
With him and the rest of the subs is Aaron Ramsdale, who was called into the squad as a replacement for the injured Dean Henderson earlier this week.
England XI to face Scotland: Pickford; James, Stones, Mings, Shaw; Phillips, Rice, Mount; Foden, Kane, Sterling.
Buy the official EURO 2020 Tournament Programme with a special Wembley London cover now:
https://reachsportshop.com/team/euro-2020/
