
EPL Index
·24 March 2025
England Starting XI vs Latvia: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup

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·24 March 2025
As England prepare to host Latvia at Wembley tonight in their second 2026 World Cup qualifier, all eyes turn to Thomas Tuchel’s evolving tactical identity. Friday’s 2-0 win over Albania marked a composed, if cautious, start to the new era—but with several injuries and selection puzzles, tonight could offer a clearer window into Tuchel’s long-term thinking.
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Anthony Gordon has returned to Newcastle for assessment after picking up a knock following his late cameo against Albania. With Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer already ruled out, Tuchel is left with Eberechi Eze and Jarrod Bowen as his primary wide options.
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That trio’s absence limits attacking permutations, although Tuchel hinted pre-match at rotation without committing to wholesale changes. “We have reasons to let all of them play again and do stuff a bit better and find a rhythm together,” the England boss said. “But we have reports from the physical department where some players are flagged with slight concerns… it could be a mix between both.”
Myles Lewis-Skelly, fresh from a record-breaking debut, is expected to keep his spot on the left. The 17-year-old became the youngest player to score on his senior debut for England on Friday and offered a composed blend of defensive awareness and positional maturity rarely seen at his age.
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On the opposite flank, Chelsea captain Reece James could replace Kyle Walker, while Ezri Konsa is likely to keep his place at centre-back. Marc Guehi, however, may return to the XI after being surprisingly benched for Dan Burn last time out—despite being one of England’s standout defenders at Euro 2024.
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Morgan Rogers will also be under consideration for his full debut after a lively substitute appearance against Albania. The Aston Villa forward could be deployed wide or in a fluid front three depending on Tuchel’s desired shape. Rashford and Foden started last time out, but the balance could be adjusted with fresh legs and attacking sharpness.
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Here’s how England could line up at Wembley tonight:
Predicted England XI: Pickford; James, Konsa, Guehi, Lewis-Skelly; Rogers, Rice, Bellingham; Foden, Kane, Rashford
Injured: Gordon, PalmerKick-off: 7.45pm GMT, Monday 24 March 2025Venue: Wembley Stadium, LondonHow to watch: Live on ITV