Thomas Tuchel has offered clues about his starting line-up for England's World Cup opener against Croatia following the release of squad numbers. The head coach had already raised eyebrows with his squad announcement, which saw Harry Maguire, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer left at home, while John Stones, Jordan Henderson and Ivan Toney were selected.
Declan Rice and Harry Kane have been given No.4 and No.9 respectively, indicating they will start. Ollie Watkins has been handed No.19, suggesting he is the chief back-up to Kane, with surprise selection Toney getting No.23. Marcus Rashford (No.11) is an option through the middle but Watkins appears to be the go-to man should anything happen to Kane.
Ezri Konsa has been given No.2, but the Villa defender is unlikely to play at right-back unless there's an emergency. Instead, he looks set to partner Marc Guehi in the heart of defence. Konsa's consistency, recovery speed and ability to play across the back line have made him a first-choice option in Tuchel's side.
John Stones was a surprise pick after making just a handful of starts this season. Tuchel has given him the No.5 shirt, suggesting he will be the next cab off the rank should anything happen to Konsa or Guehi. Stones brings calmness in possession and big-tournament know-how as he heads to another World Cup, albeit on the back of an injury-hit season.
One of Tuchel's most fascinating decisions will be who to deploy in the 'No.10' role. If it goes on shirt numbers, Jude Bellingham (No.10) will get the gig ahead of Morgan Rogers (No.17). Bellingham isn't nailed on to start against Croatia but even if he does, Rogers will apply pressure. On the left flank, Rashford has been handed the No.11 shirt, while Anthony Gordon will wear No.18, suggesting Rashford has the nod for that berth.
