England: latest news, probable lineup v Colombia

England meet Colombia in the World Cup’s Round of 16 on Tuesday. We have searched the internet for latest news from the Three Lions’ base.

Gareth Southgate’s impressive England squad are in Moscow. They prepared at their base in Repino, on the Finnish gulf. Almost a full reserve side lost to a near entirely understudy team fielded by Belgium, on Thursday. Both teams had qualified from Group G in advance. Will Colombia put a stop to the Three Lions’ progress?

What the manager says

Jordan Pickford suffered some criticism from fellow goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, following the Belgian matchup. One of the few remaining ‘first eleven’ players: Pickford was adjudged too diminutive to save Adnan Januzaj’s shot.

Courtois is quoted in the Daily Mail: “The goalkeeper is 10cm smaller than me. I would have caught it. He was too busy throwing his legs in the air.”

Rather baffling for a winning ‘keeper to attack a fellow professional. Possibly the Chelsea stopper should concentrate on his own performances: which have declined over the past two seasons.

Just as an astute and quality boss should: Southgate came to the defence of his No.1. The former England defender said: “I’m really pleased with his performances.” And when asked if the Everton player has his manager’s confidence, Southgate was emphatic: “Absolutely. Yes. No question.”

It remains to be seen if the current first choice Three Lions goalkeeper is sufficient. Whether he is the best from the three squad members is debatable.

With Dele Alli probably returning from injury; expect England to lineup exactly how they did against Tunisia. St. George’s side also have a confirmed penalty shootout sequence. But the gaffer is reticent there.

A fearless and confident camp

"“As a team we’re not scared of anyone. Whatever team you put in front of us we’re not going to hide.” – Dele Alli (Via: Sky Sports)"

During press conferences and press liaisons; it is refreshing to have a laid-back squad. Usually England have stress from the press. However, there is an affable, almost joyous atmosphere while conveying the narrative.

And that description is consistently happy and content. For example; their unicorn inflatable swimming pool race for morale. And, I cite the camaraderie building Subbuteo tournaments.

A relaxed, dedicated and diligent team is portrayed in social media. Backed up by a personable overall demeanour. The squad clearly have close relationships, banter and a bond.

Lineup prediction

Anticipate a 3-1-4-2 formation against Colombia. Pickford will start in-goal. Along with John Stones, Harry Maguire and Kyle Walker as defenders. Ashley young and Kieran Trippier will reprise their positions as opposite wing-backs. Jordan Henderson shall be the holding midfielder. Joining Dele Alli and Jesse Lingard; in support of Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling.

Sterling and Young are the closest to being dropped. Danny Rose was excellent against Belgium. While Sterling has struggled to get involved; let alone score. He is, however, vital to future progression. Although if he misfires again, I would definitely start Marcus Rashford in future. Manchester City’s man performed exceptionally domestically. While two goals in 40 appearances is not up to international standards.

Next: Three Lions can WIN World Cup

England’s route to the World Cup Final if they beat Colombia is favourable, to say the least. It will be Switzerland or Sweden in the quarter-finals. Semi-finals: Russia, Croatia as well as Denmark may await. In addition to the four most likely finalists: either Uruguay, France, Brazil or Belgium. Yet, as we have witnessed, nothing is guaranteed at Russia 2018.