England take on Wales tonight in their final World Cup group game, and there are calls for Newcastle’s Callum Wilson to start over Harry Kane.
The Three Lions are on the brink of qualification for the knockout stages, with a point good enough to send Gareth Southgate’s side through to the next round.
It will likely mean Southgate makes a few changes to his side, having named the same starting XI for the games against Iran and USA.
There is speculation that Jordan Henderson could come in for Jude Bellingham, while fans have been debating whether or not Kane should keep his place in the side.
The Tottenham striker impressed against Iran, providing two assists. However, he also picked up an ankle injury.
Kane was deemed fit to play the full game against USA on Friday, but he was nowhere near his usual standards. The 29-year-old didn’t look fully fit, and almost seemed allergic to going in the box – he avoided it that much.
His performance has led to discussion over whether or not Wilson should replace him, and former Newcastle and England manager Sam Allardyce has given his view.
Big Sam backs Wilson
Speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, Allardyce explained why he would rest Kane and give Newcastle’s number nine a chance.
“Callum Wilson at the moment is playing out of his skin at Newcastle,” he said.
“You can play him. I’d play Callum Wilson [vs Wales].”
Wilson should start vs Wales
While Kane might be the golden boy of English football, he simply wasn’t at it on Friday night. He didn’t lead the line, and it was a surprise to see him play the full 90 minutes.
With England all but qualified for the next round, Southgate should make a change. Kane doesn’t look fit, and could probably benefit from an extended break before the second round.
Bringing in Wilson would be a brave move by Southgate, but one that could pay off. The £20million man did well off the bench against Iran, and is full of confidence given his form in the Premier League.
There needs to be competition for places, and Southgate could send a message to Kane if he picks Wilson over him.
This is a chance to England to rotate, and keep their team fresh as they go in search of World Cup glory. And that should result in Wilson starting over Kane.
However, it would be a surprise to see Southgate make such a bold call.
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