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England’s predicted starting lineup for EURO 2016

By Jonathan Perelman

(L-R) Vincent Janssen of Holland, Kyle Walker of England, Jamie Vardy of England during the friendly match between England and Netherlands on March 29, 2016 at Wembley stadium in London, England.(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)
(L-R) Vincent Janssen of Holland, Kyle Walker of England, Jamie Vardy of England during the friendly match between England and Netherlands on March 29, 2016 at Wembley stadium in London, England.(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images) /
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Chris Smalling of England during the friendly match between England and Netherlands on March 29, 2016 at Wembley stadium in London, England.(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)
Chris Smalling of England during the friendly match between England and Netherlands on March 29, 2016 at Wembley stadium in London, England.(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images) /

7. Chris Smalling

Playing alongside Gary Cahill should be Manchester United center back Chris Smalling. Smalling was often questioned at United until this year he has stepped up in many ways. He seems to be the obvious choice here in most people’s minds, including star English forward Jamie Vardy. Vardy said that Smalling was his toughest defender to get by this season.

This is what England needs. A center back who can not only win headers and dominate in the air, but that can shut down a star forward that they will most likely see this summer. As Wales is in their group along with Russia and Slovakia, Smalling will occasionally be called on to help defend against the likes of Gareth Bale and Russia’s Roman Pavlyuchenko.

At 24, Smalling has some experience with the national team, but not much. He can learn from Gary Cahill. He not only has a great future for England, but he is also ready to star for them now. Most people are saying that Chris Smalling will start for this team when they head to France and I would agree.

Next: 6. Onto the midfield