Gareth Southgate is reportedly expected to hand a start to Kyle Walker for England's World Cup fixture with Wales on Tuesday evening.

The Three Lions head into their closing encounter in Group B having collected four points from matches against Iran and USA, the goalless draw with the latter leading to stinging criticism of Southgate's side.

However, England remain at the top of the group and will qualify for the last 16 unless they lose by a four-goal margin to their British rivals at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium.

Regardless of the favourable scenario in front of them, there would have been calls for Southgate to make changes to his side after the uninspired display versus the Stars and Stripes.

According to talkSPORT, there is likely to be a number of alterations with Walker in line to make his return to action after injury.

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The Manchester City right-back has been sidelined since the start of October due to having to undergo groin surgery, the initial prognosis being that the 32-year-old would miss the tournament.

Nevertheless, despite his lack of game time, Walker was included in the 26-player squad with the view of coming into contention from the second group game onwards.

As it stands, it is unclear what role Walker will occupy, but he appears to be in line to get important minutes under his belt against the Dragons.

The report adds that Jordan Henderson should also take the place of Jude Bellingham, who played for less than an hour versus USA on Friday evening.

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Jack Grealish, Phil Foden and Marcus Rashford are said to be further squad members who are coming into Southgate's thinking for their upcoming fixture.

Foden, to the surprise of many, remained an unused substitute against USA, and the Manchester City playmaker may earn a recall on Tuesday.

Rashford is an alternative on the flank or down the centre for Harry Kane, although it appears unlikely that Southgate will rest his captain at this stage.

While James Maddison has recently returned to training after a knee issue, the Leicester City man will only be considered for a spot among the replacements.

Written by
Darren Plant