England’s squad has plenty of talent that has yet to be used and game time might be vital for each member of the squad as the World Cup progresses. Southgate has stressed how keen he is to keep all squad members involved and spirits will certainly be lifted by giving players on the margins an even bigger feel of the World Cup environment by rewarding them a starting place.
For all the talk of England’s great unity within the squad, and this is definitely the case, there is no doubt playing actual matches is what they are here for. Every player wants more than the role of cheerleader and will be desperate to grab any chance they can, perhaps even staking a claim for the later stages. Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold has shown superb temperament and it makes sense for him to replace the outstanding Kieran Tripper, who had his thigh strapped after he was substituted against Panama. Trippier has been a real success story out here and he will be vital in the knockout stages. No risks there.
Eric Dier may also be needed as a second midfield pivot alongside Jordan Henderson against better opposition so Southgate might welcome the chance to play him in. Gary Cahill would represent little risk of weakening the side in central defence while Danny Welbeck has proved he can score goals at England level – even if he does not pose the same threat as Kane. And while Kane will want to be in from the start with his form so good and his ambition so high, there is a real temptation for Southgate to want to keep some gas in the tank.
Ashley Young, at 32, has a strength-sapping role as wing-back on the left side so it might be prudent to rest tired legs there and give Danny Rose, who had a truncated season at Tottenham, valuable game time. Southgate will also have the long game in the back of his mind so will be considering the dangers of over-exertion, even if every player will be desperate to play every game they can. It is a very delicate balance and one Southgate will have weighed up with his trusted England backroom team before deciding which way to go.