It will be an all-British clash when England take on their rivals Scotland at Wembley Stadium in London in a crucial World Cup qualifier. This will be the two nations’ first competitive meeting since 1999. The two British sides meet as part of a Group F clash on Remembrance Day, with both aiming to qualify for the 2018 World Cup that will take place in Russia. Scotland were the only British team who were not there in the Euro 2016 and will be keen to make it to a major competition after a long time.
Gareth Southgate’s men find themselves at top of the group F, three points ahead of Scotland who are in fourth place, and are unbeaten in their opening three matches. This game could decide Southgate’s long-term future in England hot seat while Gordon Strachan is under massive pressure as Scotland suffered a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Slovakia in the last game.
Scotland will welcome their talismanic midfielder Scott Brown who has come out retirement and is expected to start, while Blackburn defender Charlie Mulgrew has been called up after returning to Championship action. Let us take a look at the predicted Scotland lineup against the Three Lions.
Defence
Hull City custodian David Marshall should start under the bar for Scotland. The 31-year-old is a quality keeper and he will know that he will be tested by the England attack. Ipswich Town defender Christophe Berra and Norwich City defender Russell Martin should start at the heart of the defence.
With Celtic left-back Kieran Tierney out with injury, Rangers skipper Lee Wallace will start at left-back. Heart of Midlothian FC right-back Callum Paterson should start at right-back. Both Scotland full-backs are pretty adventurous and could be big threats to England with their attacking forays.
Midfield
Crystal Palace midfield James McArthur has enjoyed a good form this season in the Premier League. He will start against England at the base of a three-man midfield. West Brom skipper Darren Fletcher should start as one of the two box to box midfielders. Scott Brown, the Celtic captain, is having a brilliant season at Parkhead under Brendan Rodgers and will hope that he can keep up his good work for the national team as he completes the midfield trio.
Attack
Hull City star Robert Snodgrass is likely to start on the right flank. We expect Newcastle winger Matt Ritchie to start on the left ahead of youngster Oliver Burke. Fulham striker Chris Martin is likely to spearhead the attack ahead of Steven Fletcher.
