England World Cup predicted starting XI vs Iran odds: Alexander-Arnold an outsider ahead of Nations League squad reveal

GARETH SOUTHGATE has another selection dilemma on his plate as he draws closer to naming his latest England squad.

But that decision is as tough now as ever, with players desperate to make the squad for this winter’s World Cup in Qatar.

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As the countdown continues to that opening clash with Iran on November 21, Betfair have looked at the players most likely to start in that opening clash.

While many positions and players pick themselves, there will be question marks over the entire defence and attacking selections after a topsy-turvy Premier League start for some.

But there doesn’t seem to be any doubt about the man between the sticks as Jordan Pickford (1/3) looks set to keep his place in goal.

He’s ahead of Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale (5/2) and Nick Pope (5/1) who picked up August’s Player of the Month.

Then onto a contentious position, with Trent Alexander-Arnold set to MISS OUT on a starting spot for this game, according to Betfair.

They have Reece James (5/6) and Kyle Walker (10/11) ahead of him for that right-back spot, with TAA odds-against to get the call.

Despite a productive season going forward, questions marks over his defensive displays continue to trouble Alexander-Arnold, who recently became the youngest player in Liverpool’s history to reach 50 European appearances.

There appears no doubt as to who England will play in the heart of defence with John Stones (1/25) and Harry Maguire (4/9) appearing nailed on to start.

While Ben Chilwell is in pole position to claim the left-back spot (4/7) ahead of Luke Shaw (4/1) and Kieran Trippier (6/4) who can play there.

Declan Rice (2/9) and Kalvin Phillips (8/15) look set for midfield starts alongside Chelsea’s Mason Mount (2/9)

Jude Bellingham definitely remains in the hunt though at 6/4, with Jordan Henderson (13/2) and James Ward-Prowse (9/1) amongst those with a lot to prove.

If fit, there’s absolutely no doubt that Harry Kane (1/14) will lead the Three Lions’ forward line – but who plays alongside him?

Betfair predict Raheem Sterling (4/9) and Phil Foden (5/6) will be the two to occupy the other attacking slots.

Bukayo Saka (21/10) and Jack Grealish (9/4) are the next shortest odds, though a return to form looks to have come at the right time for Manchester United pals Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho (both 13/2) to stake their claim.

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