Thomas Tuchel will make the biggest call on his starting XI for this last 16 tie with Mexico.
It is worth remembering that England boss Tuchel is incredibly secretive about his choices – and makes a point of telling the players to keep it secret.
The players have been told just hours before the game for previous games so they are probably finding out around now…
Do not read anything into Jordan Henderson doing the press conference ahead of the game. He is a senior player and Tuchel wanted a strong voice.
There have definitely been noises about Ezri Konsa switching to right back with John Stones coming in to partner Marc Guehi for his experience, big-game mentality and quality on the ball.
Right back has been such an issue that would not surprise me. Tuchel has already said that Declan Rice is playing midfield so forget that as an option.
Tuchel has declared Jarell Quansah fit so, again, that is a strong possibility.
Bukayo Saka on the right might be a choice – but can you trust his fitness? Noni Madueke struggled both offensively and defensively last time out.
Marcus Rashford had a poor game against DR Congo and, if fit after turning his ankle a little in training, then Anthony Gordon is surely the option.
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Gordon is better defensively but unfortunately neither he or Rashford have played well in any game they have started and have been better from the bench.
Tuchel has insisted that the altitude in the Azteca is going to hit hard in the first 20 minutes so England must start better, be prepared and be better than they have in other games.
Mexican journalists also believe that the last 20 minutes can hit opponents hard. England need to start and finish well.
If you have not seen him already, Mexico’s Julián Quiñones is such a good player from the left. He’s been fabulous. That also lends itself to Konsa maybe.
John Cross’ guesstimate England XI vs Mexico: Pickford; Konsa, Stones, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon, Kane.
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