UMVA has learned that England manager Thomas Tuchel is set to experiment with his team's lineup in a crucial warm-up match against Costa Rica on Wednesday night.
The Three Lions' final tune-up before the World Cup against Croatia next Wednesday will see four players take to the pitch together for the first time under Tuchel's management. This match in Orlando presents a vital opportunity for players to stake their claim on Tuchel's starting XI.
A strong side has been named for the Costa Rica clash, with Jordan Pickford guarding the goal and a back four consisting of Reece James, Ezri Konsa, John Stones, and Nico O'Reilly. The midfield trio of Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, and Jude Bellingham will support a front three of Noni Madueke, Harry Kane, and Anthony Gordon.
The inclusion of Bellingham in this lineup has sparked speculation that he may be edging ahead of Morgan Rogers for the number 10 position against Croatia. However, Tuchel remains tight-lipped, pointing out that he has yet to field Bellingham alongside Rice, Anderson, and Kane in a starting XI.
Tuchel described this lineup as a 'concept' he wants to test, suggesting it could be the starting XI when the World Cup gets underway. 'I think it's the first time he plays with Harry, Declan and Elliot together, so it's a good test of concept, we want to see that,' he told ITV.
The German manager emphasized that his team is in excellent shape, boasting a strong starting lineup and an equally impressive bench. While he stopped short of confirming this as the starting XI against Croatia, Tuchel expressed confidence that the team can compete at the highest level.
'Yeah, we can start any match, it's a very strong line-up and we have very strong players from the bench,' he said. 'And we need it, we want to take the next step and push the boundaries a bit after the ten days and end the prep camp in a good way.'
Tuchel outlined the aims of the Costa Rica match, focusing on increasing intensity both on and off the ball. He expressed optimism that his team can demonstrate progress and deliver a strong performance.
