The England XI That Interim Coach Gareth Southgate Needs to Pick Against Scotland
England interim coach Gareth Southgate badly needs a win when the Three Lions face Scotland at Wembley on Friday, both in terms of making his case to land the manager's job full-time and to kick-start the stagnating 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign.
With a fully fit squad now at his disposal following Fraser Forster's withdrawal, the stand-in boss has plenty of options.
Here's a look at the best XI Southgate should choose to get the victory. (4-2-3-1).
"?Tom Heaton
Tom Heaton is the Premier League's most in-form goalkeeper right now and deserves this chance ahead of Joe Hart, a player whose form has remained patchy despite his fresh start in Italy. Heaton is yet to make his full debut after only a few minutes of action to his name.
Kyle Walker
Tottenham defender Kyle Walker has established himself as England's premier right-back over the last 12 months. He holds a significant advantage over Nathaniel Clyne in terms of form at this moment in time, while his natural tendency to attack will always provide extra width.
Gary Cahill
With Chris Smalling missing out on selection as a result of injury, Chelsea centre-back Gary Cahill is the logical choice as the most senior defender. He's been used to playing in a back three at club level of late but rediscovered confidence should more than compensate.
John Stones
John Stones was one of a number of England players who sat out the main group training for a day earlier this week to undergo an individual session. He is fit to play, though, and will have to try and eradicate some of the mistakes he's been making at club level.
Danny Rose
Hard as it may be to believe, Danny Rose didn't make his England debut until earlier this year despite being in and around the senior squad since 2014. He's played 10 times since that first game, the stunning 3-2 comeback with against Germany in March.
Eric Dier
Tottenham man Eric Dier is now England's midfield linchpin and the choice of many for next captain. The Sporting CP-taught player offers defensive protection for the back, is an accomplished passer and has shown he can even chip in with crucial goals.
Jordan Henderson
Jordan Henderson is one of only two players Southgate has confirmed will start the game. The Liverpool captain is enjoying a fine season at club level under Jurgen Klopp and actually currently leads the Premier League in completed passes.
Jesse Lingard
Jesse Lingard played in each of England's last two games off the back of a stellar breakout season for Manchester United in 2015/16. The 23-year-old was a rare bright spark in what were two otherwise disappointing team performances.
Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney will definitely return to the starting line-up after only featuring as a substitute against Slovenia. He's shown a little more fight and determination in his last two Manchester United games, which included a fine goal against Fenerbahce in the Europa League.
Adam Lallana
The sole goalscorer of the Sam Allardyce era, Adam Lallana has been central to Liverpool's charge up the Premier League table this season. He was noticeably missed when an injury meant he was unable to start against Manchester United and offers great creativity.
Marcus Rashford
England's options up front are somewhat limited with Harry Kane only just returning to full fitness. Marcus Rashford has the pace that could hurt Scotland and he certainly warrants a starting place more than Daniel Sturridge who is yet to score in the league this season.
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