Following a disappointing loss to Greece, England is now looking for redemption as they face Finland in the UEFA Nations League. Greece emerged as 2-1 winners at Wembley Stadium, marking Lee Carsley’s first defeat as England’s interim manager. The experimental lineup resulted in a lackluster performance from the Three Lions, who now find themselves three points behind the Euro 2004 champions in their Nations League group.
England is determined to secure promotion back to League A after being relegated in 2022/23 and still believes they have a good chance of returning to the top table. However, they cannot afford another setback against Finland, whom they defeated 2-0 thanks to Harry Kane’s double during the September break.
Here is how England could potentially line up on Sunday:
- GK: Jordan Pickford – Despite his shaky display against Greece, Pickford is expected to retain his starting spot.
- RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold – Alexander-Arnold struggled both offensively and defensively against Greece and may face competition from Kyle Walker.
- CB: John Stones – Stones had a weak performance against Greece while wearing the captain’s armband for the first time. He will need to improve when facing Teemu Pukki.
- CB: Marc Guehi – Guehi was surprisingly left out of Carsley’s lineup against Greece but could make an appearance following England’s defensive struggles.
- LB: Levi Colwill – Rico Lewis had an inconsistent performance at left-back and may be replaced by Colwill.
- CM: Jude Bellingham – Bellingham has been played out of position despite excelling in a box-to-box role at Borussia Dortmund. He will need to raise his game after performing below expectations against Greece.
- CM: Declan Rice – Rice is a consistent presence in midfield but finding his ideal partner has proven challenging for Carsley without Kobbie Mainoo available.
- RW: Noni Madueke – Madueke provided energy off the bench against Greece and should start with Bukayo Saka sidelined due to injury.
- AM: Cole Palmer – Palmer rarely disappoints and performed well against Greece. His impressive club form demands attention as England’s attacking midfield dynamo.
-LW: Phil Foden – Foden had a lackluster display similar to his performances during Euro 2024. However, limited alternatives mean he will likely start again in Finland.
-ST: Ollie Watkins – Playing without a traditional number nine proved costly for Carsley against Greece. With Kane potentially absent again, Watkins should get the nod upfront.
It remains crucial for England not only to bounce back from their defeat but also secure victory over Finland if they want any hope of promotion within their Nations League group.