Ezri Konsa looks set to start for England against Croatia in Wednesday’s World Cup opener, while Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins face an anxious wait.
- Konsa appears to have overtaken Marc Guehi for the starting centre-back role alongside John Stones
- It would represent the 19th England cap for the Europa League Team of the Season defender
- Rogers continues to battle Jude Bellingham for the number ten role, with no guarantee of a start
- Watkins remains primarily Kane’s understudy, likely to feature from the bench rather than the opening eleven
Konsa’s rise. From doubt to probable starter
The centre-back debate has dominated England’s pre-tournament build-up, and the outcome appears to be falling firmly in Villa’s favour. Marc Guehi was initially considered the guaranteed starting partner alongside Stones, with Konsa and Stones himself competing for the remaining slot. However, recent reports suggest Konsa has done enough during training and warm-up performances to leapfrog Guehi entirely.
Should that prediction prove accurate, Konsa would earn his 19th England cap in Dallas a remarkable achievement for a player who, twelve months ago, was not considered a guaranteed international regular. Furthermore, his consistent club form throughout Villa’s historic season provides the clearest possible explanation. Konsa was named in the Europa League Team of the Season, delivering composed, authoritative performances at the heart of Emery’s defence across the most demanding fixtures of the campaign.
That specific club form has translated directly into Tuchel’s thinking. Consequently, Konsa now stands as the Villa player most likely to start England’s opening World Cup fixture ahead of two teammates many assumed would be guaranteed starters by this stage of the summer.
Rogers. Still fighting for the number ten role
Morgan Rogers’ situation remains considerably less certain. The Europa League Player of the Season has been deployed at number ten during pre-tournament friendlies, including a first-half appearance against New Zealand. Nevertheless, Jude Bellingham, who holds the tournament’s number ten shirt and took the captain’s armband during the second half against New Zealand, appears to be Tuchel’s preferred option for the genuinely competitive fixtures.
Rogers’ versatility across left wing, number ten and second striker positions gives Tuchel flexibility throughout the tournament. However, against a specifically well-organised Croatia side, the manager may prioritise Bellingham’s experience and physical presence in midfield areas over Rogers’ more explosive, direct attacking instincts.
Watkins. Kane’s understudy, not a guaranteed starter
Ollie Watkins’ role has been clearly and repeatedly defined by Tuchel throughout the build-up. “I think Ollie is more the guy maybe to start for Harry if we think Harry should not start a match.” Given that Kane has been described as “in top shape and ready to go”, there is currently no indication that England’s captain requires rotation for the opening fixture.
Therefore, Watkins’ most realistic path into the match is via the substitute’s bench, entering later to maintain pressing intensity or provide a different attacking option against tired Croatian legs. His specific role as Kane’s primary deputy makes him an important squad member rather than a guaranteed starter for this particular fixture.
Croatia. A familiar and demanding test
England’s history against Croatia carries significant emotional weight, from the heartbreak of the 2018 World Cup semi-final defeat to the more recent Euro 2020 and Nations League victories. Zlatko Dalic’s side remains a well-organised, experienced unit, and Wednesday’s contest in Dallas should provide a genuine examination of England’s title credentials from the very first whistle.
ReadAstonVilla Verdict
Konsa starting represents a significant individual achievement and reward for an outstanding club season. Rogers and Watkins may need to be patient, but both possess the quality to make a decisive subs.
