England predicted lineup vs Latvia: Tuchel set to shake things up at Wembley | OneFootball

England kicked off their Thomas Tuchel era and World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over Albania last Friday, courtesy of goals from Myles Lewis-Skelly and Harry Kane. Up next for them is a home fixture against Latvia at Wembley Stadium on Monday.

The match against Albania was one where England never looked in danger, even though they didn’t play with the fluidity fans might have expected. As the team adjusts to Tuchel’s system, improvements should follow. Since England's next international match will come after the club season ends, the German coach will be eager to evaluate more players within the squad.

England's Predicted Lineup vs Latvia in the World Cup Qualifier (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford

Even though changes are expected, it is highly unlikely that anyone else will start ahead of Pickford. Goalkeepers typically don’t rotate like outfield players, and the Everton shot-stopper remains England’s undisputed No. 1.

Right-back: Reece James

Although Kyle Walker started against Albania, it is improbable that Tuchel will overlook an opportunity to hand a start to his former player. Since James only played during injury time on Friday, fatigue won’t be a concern as he continues to be managed carefully following his past injury struggles.

Center-back: Marc Guéhi

Guéhi’s absence from the lineup against Albania was surprising, considering how integral he was before Tuchel took charge. Expect him to start, as Tuchel will want to assess his role within the England setup.

Center-back: Levi Colwill

It was a toss-up between Dan Burn and Levi Colwill for the left center-back position. The Newcastle defender got the nod on Friday, but Colwill is expected to start on Monday.

Left-back: Myles Lewis-Skelly

The Arsenal teenager had a dream debut, scoring England’s opening goal at Wembley. Dropping a player high on confidence seems unlikely. If the predicted selections hold, England’s backline will be composed entirely of players with a Chelsea connection.

Central Defensive Midfield: Curtis Jones

Jones had a strong performance against Albania. The fact that he was substituted suggests he is likely to be preferred over Jordan Henderson once again in midfield.

Central Defensive Midfield: Declan Rice

The former Chelsea academy player delivered an excellent performance, controlling the game and providing a superb assist for Kane’s goal. He is expected to retain his spot in the starting XI.

Right-wing: Jarrod Bowen

The West Ham captain has been one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers in recent seasons. Phil Foden, who started against Albania, struggled to make an impact, which could see Bowen earn the nod against Latvia.

Attacking Midfield: Jude Bellingham

The Real Madrid star was one of England’s standout players on Friday. He was central to their attacking play and came close to scoring on multiple occasions. His place in the lineup is all but assured.

Left-wing: Morgan Rogers

Anthony Gordon would have been the preferred starter on the left wing, but an injury suffered after coming on as a substitute means he has returned to Newcastle United. Marcus Rashford, who started against Albania, failed to influence the game as much as Tuchel would have hoped. That leaves Morgan Rogers as the most logical option to start on the left flank.

Center-forward: Harry Kane

Like Pickford, Kane is an automatic selection. The England captain, who scored against Albania, remains one of the best strikers in the world and will lead the attack as England continues their road to the World Cup. Dominic Solanke will have to settle for a spot on the bench once again.