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Kane set to start over Wilson for England vs USA following positive ankle scan

talksport.com, 23 November 2022, 13:25
Harry Kane is poised to start ahead of Callum Wilson against USA in England's second World Cup group stage clash following a positive scan on his ankle.

The Three Lions skipper was a doubt after suffering an ankle knock following a strong tackle from Morteza Pouraliganji in Monday's 6-2 win against Iran.

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Kane was spotted limping while having his ankle strapped up after the emphatic victory to spark fears he could miss the USA match.

Gareth Southgate attempted to play down any concern in the immediate aftermath of the Iran clash as he insisted that the Tottenham striker is 'fine'.

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But it was then reported how Kane was set to have a scan on his right ankle to determine the severity of the problem.

And in a boost for England, the Three Lions are confident Kane will be fit for the game against USA with the skipper back in full training.

A win against USA would see England progress into the knockout stages, and would all-but guarantee top spot in Group B.

Southgate will be keen to start Kane for the crunch clash, and he could decide to make changes in his attempt to keep his players fresh, though he isn't usually one to tinker a winning team.

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Jordan Pickford will undoubtedly keep his place between the sticks at the expense of both Aaron Ramsdale and Nick Pope.

Kieran Trippier is likely to be England's first-choice right-back for the remainder of the World Cup.

Luke Shaw is the only recognised left-back so will start on the opposite side.

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Despite being taken off for being unwell against Iran, Harry Maguire has declared himself as fit, and he should once again feature in the heart of defence having impressed in the opening game.

Erid Dier and Ben White are pressing for starts, but John Stones will likely partner Maguire again.

Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham will surely be deployed once again in a double-pivot having run the midfield against Iran.

The biggest decisions to be made will be in attack.

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After his double against Iran, Bukayo Saka will almost certainly keep his spot on the right wing with Raheem Sterling - also on target in the 6-2 win - to feature down the left flank.

Mason Mount impressed in England's World Cup opener and is a favourite of Southgate's.

But Phil Foden could be preferred in the No10 role, who has been in great scoring form this campaign.

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Foden has seven Premier League goals this season, compared to Mount's two, and can provide more of a goal threat than the Chelsea star.

And should Kane get the nod, he will be tasked with leading the line, with Newcastle marksman Wilson forced to settle for a place on the bench.

Citizens winger Jack Grealish is also likely to have to settle for a place on the bench again as an impact sub.

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