England are expected to make only one or two changes as Thomas Tuchel’s side begin the knockout stage against DR Congo in Atlanta.

Who will play for England vs DR Congo?

The biggest selection issue is at right back after injuries disrupted England’s plans. Reece James’ tournament appears to be over with a hamstring problem, while Jarell Quansah is also expected to miss out after rolling his ankle against Panama. Tuchel said the injury was only “a matter of days”, but with bigger tests potentially to come, there’s little reason to take a gamble.

That should open the door for Djed Spence, who has already featured in all three group games and now looks set for his first World Cup knockout start.

Elsewhere, England are expected to revert to something much closer to their strongest lineup. Declan Rice should come straight back into midfield after being rested against Panama as Tuchel managed the calf issue he picked up against Ghana. His return allows Elliot Anderson to keep his place, while Jude Bellingham can continue in the No. 10 role as he looks to help take England deep in the tournament.

Bukayo Saka has been carefully managed because of an ongoing Achilles problem but is expected to start again on the right. Marcus Rashford likely did enough against Panama to stay ahead of Anthony Gordon on the left, while it goes without saying that Harry Kane will lead the line after scoring three goals in the group stage.

Jordan Pickford remains England’s No. 1 despite a few nervy moments in the tournament, with Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi expected to continue at the heart of the defence. Nico O’Reilly should also keep his place at left back.

Unless Tuchel springs a surprise on us, it should be a fairly predictable starting team that trots out.

Predicted England XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane.

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