England World Cup lineup, starting 11 in Qatar 2022: Walker and Maddison set to miss Iran opener

England get their 2022 World Cup campaign under way against Iran on Monday.

The Three Lions will hope to continue the progress they have showed in two previous major tournaments under manager Gareth Southgate and claim a first international trophy since 1966.

England surpassed expectations by reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, while they were beaten on penalties by Italy in the final of Euro 2020 at Wembley.

However, a lacklustre Nations League campaign earlier this season means Southgate enters the tournament in Qatar under a degree of pressure, amid doubts he might not be the man to most effectively harness an impressive generation of English talent.

Below is the latest information on the potential starting lineup that Southgate could choose ahead of the Group B match against Iran on November 21.

MORE: England vs Iran World Cup kick off time, lineups and TV details

England lineup vs Iran

James Maddison was the headline inclusion in Southgate’s travelling party on the back of superb form for Leicester City. A knee injury sustained during the Foxes’ 2-0 win at West Ham in their final game before the mid-season break initially looked to put his place in jeopardy. 

The 25-year-old playmaker was able to make the plane because the complaint was not serious, but he has been training separately so far in Qatar and is not expected to make the Iran game.

Similarly, Kyle Walker – who underwent groin surgery after Manchester City’s 6-3 win over Manchester United in September and early October and has not played since – does not expect to be ready in time for the game, but is hopeful about his prospects for the rest of the tournament.

As players we have to appreciate injuries are part and parcel of the game we love. My operation on Tuesday was a success and now I can concentrate on my rehab and getting back to full fitness. I will be supporting my team mates every day in any way I can. 💙 pic.twitter.com/BcwIAjkb8B

— Kyle Walker (@kylewalker2) October 6, 2022

Southgate’s main selection decisions will revolve around expected loyalty to proven tournament performers such as Harry Maguire and Raheem Sterling, who have been out of form for their clubs, and whether or not to field a 3-4-3 or 4-3-3 formation.

England used a back three during recent Nations League encounters with Italy and Germany and it has been Southgate’s go-to setup for matches against elite nations. However, with Iran expected to sit deep in a low defensive block, he could be tempted to play a relatively more expansive 4-3-3.

England projected lineup (4-3-3, right to left): Pickford (GK) — Trippier, Stones, Maguire, Shaw — Bellingham, Rice, Mount — Foden, Kane, Sterling

• Injured: Walker (groin), Maddison (knee)
• Suspended: none

MORE: England’s full World Cup group fixture schedule for Qatar

England World Cup squad

Here are the 26 names on England’s World Cup squad in Qatar:

Source