Steve Freeth and Sam Matterface discuss which players can expect to feature in the Three Lions' group A opener against Iran.
Sam Matterface believes Harry Maguire is a shoe-in to start England’s World Cup opener against Iran next Monday despite the defender’s inconsistent recent form at both domestic and international level.
The Manchester United man is 4/9 to be included in Gareth Southgate’s XI at the Khalifa International Stadium on Monday, as the Three Lions’ bid to kick off the group stages in triumphant fashion.
The fixture is the first of three matches in the space of eight days’, and Matterface is adamant that whether the England boss opts to line up with three or four at the back, there will be a spot for Maguire regardless.
“I think John Stones and Harry Maguire both start if fit,” he told Steve Freeth as the pair reflected back upon England’s confirmed travelling party.
“Maguire will start, I don’t think there is any debate about that, whether you like it or you don’t like it.
“He is going to play. As far as Gareth Southgate is concerned, Harry Maguire is in the team.”
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