England predicted lineup for Spain clash in Euro 2024 final

The Three Lions will be aiming to win this time after coming close at the last edition.

England are one step away from clinching the title they have been waiting for as long as one can remember. They have reached back-to-back finals at the Euros, proving why the Three Lions are one of the best sides in the world.

Gareth Southgate has silenced the critics by taking England to the final after initial doubts about his potential. His substitutions in the knockout rounds have taken the team this far. England secured a dramatic win against the Netherlands, after Ollie Watkins’ wonderful strike.

Southgate knows the final is all the more crucial to the history of England and the result will likely effect his place in the backroom staff. The experienced coach could make use of this starting XI against the best team of the Euro 2024 tournament, Spain.

England’s predicted lineup against Spain (Formation: 3-4-2-1):

Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford

Jordan Pickford was in terrific form for England against the Netherlands, after making two vital saves to keep them in the match. He is a sweeper-keeper who senses the danger and comes out of his box to clear it.

Pickford is also a commanding goalkeeper who constantly shouts at the defence to maintain their position. He has kept two clean-sheets in this tournament, while conceding only four goals in six matches. 

Right Centre-Back: Kyle Walker

Kyle Walker is a versatile player who can efficiently slot in any position at the back. Under Pep Guardiola, he has become a complete player who uses his extreme bursts of pace.

Walker is outstanding in one-on-one situations, often getting the better of the attackers. In the match against the Netherlands, he made one clearance, interception and tackle each. 

Centre-Back: John Stones

John Stones has established himself as a key player in the side after some wonderful performances at the back for the team. He has had an outstanding tournament so far, playing a pivotal role for the Three Lions to move to the final.

His timely tackles and interceptions have been a reminder of the talent he brings to the side. Stones also helps the team by carrying the ball forward with his excellent dribbling ability. 

Left Centre-Back: Marc Guehi

Marc Guehi has been one of the best players for the Three Lions, who has delivered some impressive results on the road for the team. Guehi is a calm and composed player who is comfortable on the ball, as evidenced by his incredible display against the Netherlands.

Guehi does not shy away from putting his body on the line, making two blocks and five recoveries. He even played a massive role in nullifying the threat of Memphis Depay in the last match. 

Also read: Spain vs England: All time head-to-head record | UEFA Euro 2024 final

Right Wing-Back: Bukayo Saka

The change of formation seems to have benefited Bukayo Saka, as he is being afforded the license to attack the defenders with his speed and trickery. Despite failing to score or attempt any shots on target in the last match, he still managed to make an impact for the team.

He had a 100% success in dribbles along with his successful take-on. Saka also helped the team defensively by making three recoveries and one tackle. 

Central Midfielder: Kobbie Mainoo

Kobbie Mainoo’s rise to the top has been impressive, putting in another impressive performance against the Netherlands in the semi-final. After initial doubts over his place in the team, he has silenced those critics with two wonderful performances.

He finished the last match creating one chance, while also making two interceptions and one recovery. Mainoo also won all of his ground duels to cap off a brilliant performance. 

Central Midfielder: Declan Rice

Declan Rice played the anchor role effectively for England in the last match against the Netherlands. His ability to keep things simple and tidy in the middle of the park helped the team control the tempo of the game.

While he failed to create chances for the team, he was crucial in breaking up play. Rice made one clearance and interception each.

Also read: Which referee will officiate Spain vs England in Euro 2024 final?

Left Wing-Back: Kieran Trippier

Kieran Trippier put in a real shift in his new position in the match against the Netherlands, with Gareth Southgate particularly impressed by his showing. He was rock-solid at the back, winning 100% of his aerial and ground duels.

Trippier also made four recoveries in the semi-final match. He combined well with Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden from the left-hand side to help the team in transition. 

Right Winger: Phil Foden

Phil Foden returned to his best against the Dutch after being restored to his favoured position. He was a constant outlet for the team, with his movement and positioning.

He attempted three shots in the game, the most in any match by him so far in the competition. Foden also came close to scoring after his effort hit the woodwork.

Left Winger: Jude Bellingham

Jude Bellingham had a good game against the Netherlands, despite failing to score a goal. He put in a relentless shift to help the team defensively, while also building pressure with his pressing.

Bellingham recovered the ball four times in the match, while also making a vital interception. His game is not only about scoring goals but also the effort he makes to win the ball back. 

Striker: Harry Kane

Harry Kane netted the equalizer for England from the penalty spot in the previous match. He dispatched a wonderful effort in the corner to give no chance for the opposition goalkeeper to save it.

He had won the penalty which brought them back into the game after being fouled by Denzel Dumfries. Kane attempted two shots on target, while also creating a chance.

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