Bukayo Saka, Harry Maguire 'to start for England against Iran'

England manager Gareth Southgate has reportedly opted to include Harry Maguire and Bukayo Saka in his side for Monday's World Cup opener with Iran.

After the first match of the tournament saw Ecuador ease past hosts Qatar, it is now the turn of England and Iran to kick off their respective campaigns in Group B.

There has been much speculation regarding the make-up of Southgate's side with the Three Lions boss able to select a defensive three or a back four.

However, according to Sky Sports News, the decision has been made to go with the latter with Maguire, as expected, retaining his place.

The 29-year-old is no longer first choice at Manchester United and has been restricted to five starts and four substitute appearances in all competitions this season.

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Maguire has also been provided with just 233 minutes of football since he started for England against Germany in their UEFA Nations League dead-rubber on September 26.

On that occasion, Maguire, then featuring on the left-hand side of a back three, conceded a penalty and produced another unconvincing performance as England fought back to earn a 3-3 draw.

The report suggests that Maguire will play alongside John Stones, with Kieran Trippier and Luke Shaw getting the nod in the full-back positions.

While that has freed up one more space further forward, Manchester City star Phil Foden is allegedly due to begin the game in Al Rayyan on the substitutes' bench.

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That is a result of Saka earning a spot on the right flank, reward for contributing four goals and six assists in the Premier League this campaign.

However, Saka only started half of England's matches in the Nations League, with three other outings coming as a replacement, and his selection is regarded as a minor surprise.

Jude Bellingham, having impressed for Borussia Dortmund during 2021-22, is said to have been picked alongside Declan Rice in midfield, with Mason Mount adding support in a more advanced role.

Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford will start between the sticks, with Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane, who faces a booking if a decision is made to wear the 'OneLove' armband, will also feature as expected.