England v Slovenia: What to expect from Gareth Southgate’s side tonight as he looks to make it two wins from two since taking over the Three Lions hot seat

Oct 11, 2016

ENGLAND take on Slovenia in their second World Cup qualifier tonight.

Charlie Wyett, in Ljubljana for the game, gives his thoughts on what he expects from Gareth Southgate’s team.

Gareth Southgate will be looking for his stars to build on their win over Malta on Saturday

Gareth Southgate enjoys a laugh with Wayne Rooney and striker Jamie Vardy

Wayne Rooney has been dropped for tonight's match with Slovenia — Wayne Rooney has been dropped for tonight’s match with Slovenia

GOALKEEPER

Joe Hart has made the brave decision to become the first ever Englishman goalkeeper in Serie A.

While he is doing well for Torino, he needs to prove he is still this country’s top number one – something which was under debate after his poor Euro 2016.

He is likely to be busier tonight compared to Saturday’s 2-0 win over Malta. He needs to rediscover his confidence.

THE DEFENCE

We hear a lot about John Stones’ undoubted talent. I want to now see him develop for England with some measured, solid defending.

He needs to make one of the centre-back berths his own as this place is his to lose.

Gary Cahill has been unconvincing but the team needs his experience.

I expect another excellent performance from Kyle Walker who is now England’s best right-back.

Danny Rose is Gareth Southgate’s left-back but when Luke Shaw returns to fitness, I would pick him first.

John Stones will be looking to cement his place as the country's leading centre back — John Stones will be looking to cement his place as the country’s leading centre back

Kyle Walker has proved himself as England's best right-back — Kyle Walker has proved himself as England’s best right-back

Danny Rose will be looking to make sure he keeps Luke Shaw out of the England set up

THE MIDFIELD

Jordan Henderson will look to lead by example tonight. He has been a decent captain for Liverpool and there is no reason why he cannot be the same for England. I understand why Eric Dier – England’s best player at Euro 2016 – has been selected in place of Wayne Rooney. Dele Alli delivered a reasonable performance on Saturday and I want more of the same.

Jordan Henderson will skipper England tonight and will protect the back four along with Eric Dier

THE ATTACK

Jesse Lingard enjoyed a decent debut against Malta but he needs to do more offensively. The same applies to Theo Walcott who was disappointing on Saturday. Daniel Sturridge now needs to take full advantage of Harry Kane’s absence through injury. This is an important game for the Liverpool striker.

Jesse Lingard had a good debut for the England senior side but will need to be more of a threat

Daniel Sturridge scored against Malta and needs to show he is the best striker of the pack

THE SUBS

Wayne Rooney will be desperate to play some part tonight but if Southgate needs to make an offensive change, I think he will play Marcus Rashford first.

THE RESULT

England should win – but maybe by only one goal. After beating Slovakia 1-0, Slovenia should play with some confidence.

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Tags: England football England manager Football World Cup 2018

GOALKEEPER

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