Ally McCoist debates whether Callum Wilson should start for England

Add as preferred source on Google

Callum Wilson impressed again off the bench for England, leading to calls that he should start in the next round against Senegal.

The Three Lions beat Wales 3-0 on Tuesday night, ensuring they finished top of their group and booked their place in the knockout stages of the World Cup. Next up for England is AFCON champions Senegal, who they will face on Sunday.

Gareth Southgate made multiple changes to his side, with the likes of Phil Foden and Marcus Rashford massively impressing. But one change he didn’t make was up front.

Harry Kane started again, but failed to open his account at this World Cup. That will be hugely frustrating for 2018’s Golden Boot winner.

He did get an assist, however, with a wonderful low cross allowing Foden to find the net.

Kane was then replaced by Wilson, who was incredibly lively during his appearance off the bench. It has led to some people suggesting that the Newcastle forward should start, and now TalkSPORT’s Ally McCoist has given his view.

McCoist thinks Kane should continue to start over Wilson

The former Rangers striker has given his thoughts on who Southgate should play up front, and has told TalkSPORT that he would stick with Kane.

“Got to play him [Kane],” McCoist said.

“He’s got three assists and I tell you what he is right now, he’s the best crosser of the ball in the England team.

“His ball for Foden was brilliant, his ball for Sterling in the first game was brilliant. He could do with a goal in an ideal world but it’s fine.

“I like Callum Wilson, I’m a big fan of Callum Wilson. I wouldn’t be playing Rashford through the middle, I’ll tell you right now, not watching him play wide last night.”

No chance Wilson starts vs Senegal

While Newcastle fans would love to see Wilson start at the World Cup, it simply isn’t going to happen. The only chance the 30-year-old has is if Kane picks up an injury.

There is no chance that Southgate is going to bench his captain. And while he is yet to score, he is creating goals with his impressive passing range.

For Wilson, he will have to settle for cameos off the bench. But that won’t surprise him. He knew his role when he was named in England’s World Cup squad.

For Toon fans, we just have to hope that Wilson makes the most of his minutes on the pitch and returns to Tyneside fit and firing for the rest of the Premier League season.