England begin their post-World Cup campaign against Spain in the Nations League, with Mirror Football writers divided over the starting XI Thomas Tuchel should select. Jordan Pickford and Trent Alexander-Arnold are the main points of contention.
Goalkeeper debate: Pickford or Trafford?
John Cross and Mikael McKenzie both opt for James Trafford in goal, arguing the Burnley keeper is England's future and should be given a proper chance. Cross says Trafford "may well be England No. 1 by Euro 2028" and this campaign could be the time to provide proper competition for Pickford. McKenzie agrees, calling Trafford "the future" and saying it is time for a "changing of the guard."
Dan Burnham, Nathan Ridley, Felix Keith, Tom Sunderland and Tom Victor all stick with Jordan Pickford, with Ridley emphasising the need for a sturdy back four in front of him.
Right-back and midfield selections
Alexander-Arnold is backed by Cross, Keith and Sunderland. Keith notes he is "the only specialist right-back in the squad" and prefers him to converted centre-backs. Sunderland admits his start under Jose Mourinho has been mixed but says it is essential England don't fall into regressive tactics. Ridley and Victor resist the temptation, choosing Ezri Konsa at right-back instead.
With Declan Rice withdrawn, Myles Lewis-Skelly is a popular choice in midfield, selected by Ridley, Keith, Sunderland and Victor. Sunderland calls it a prime opportunity to give Lewis-Skelly his toughest test as he and Elliot Anderson try to "cage the best midfield on the planet." Cross opts for Alex Scott alongside Anderson, while Burnham picks James Garner for a more defensive element.
Attacking options and fresh faces
McKenzie is the only writer to drop Bukayo Saka, instead handing Rio Ngumoha a chance on the right wing. He also includes Morgan Gibbs-White, saying there seems to be "some sort of agenda" against the Nottingham Forest midfielder. The other six writers all select Saka, with Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane also featuring in every XI.
Tom Sunderland is the only writer to include Morgan Rogers, lining up in a 4-3-3 formation. Jude Bellingham is a unanimous pick, with several writers suggesting he could play slightly deeper in Rice's absence.
