The buzz around England’s World Cup qualifier against Andorra reached new heights on Saturday when the starting XI was officially confirmed—less than an hour after details had already leaked online.
Fans didn’t have to wait long to see the exciting mix of experience and fresh talent Thomas Tuchel has chosen for this crucial game at Villa Park.
A First England Cap for Elliot Anderson
One of the biggest talking points is the inclusion of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, who has been handed his very first England cap.
The 22-year-old, who hails from Whitley Bay in North Tyneside, will finally get the chance to represent his country just a year after leaving boyhood club Newcastle United due to financial challenges at St James’ Park. For him, it’s a milestone moment.
Marcus Rashford Back in the Fold
Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Barcelona, has also earned a spot in the starting XI.
It will be his first England appearance since March 2024, and Tuchel is expected to use him on the right wing.
Rashford has been steadily building match fitness in Spain, and his return could be a big boost for the Three Lions’ attack.
Arsenal Dominance in the Starting XI
Arsenal fans will have plenty to cheer about, with four of their players making Tuchel’s lineup.
Declan Rice will anchor the midfield, while Eberechi Eze, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Noni Madueke also feature.
They’ll be joined by Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Reece James, and captain Harry Kane, with Jordan Pickford taking his usual spot in goal.
England’s Patchy Form Against Smaller Sides
Kick-off is set for 5pm at Villa Park, where England will look to stretch their lead at the top of Group K.
Despite winning all three qualifiers so far against Andorra, Latvia, and Albania, the performances haven’t been particularly convincing.
In their last meeting with Andorra, the team struggled to break down a side ranked 173rd in the world, only securing a 1-0 win thanks to a second-half goal.
Serbia Looms as the Big Test
After tonight’s match, England will head to Serbia, a fixture widely seen as the biggest challenge of their qualifying campaign.
Anything less than smooth progress through this stage would be considered a disappointment for Tuchel’s men, especially given the wealth of talent at his disposal.
Tuchel Keeps Door Open for New Faces
Much like interim coach Lee Carsley before him, Tuchel is showing he’s not afraid to experiment with fresh talent.
Alongside Anderson, he has included Djed Spence in his first England squad.
If Spence makes his debut, he could become the first known Muslim player to feature for the national team—another landmark moment for the Three Lions.
Tuchel’s Starting XI for Andorra
Here’s how England will line up:
Jordan Pickford; Reece James, Marc Guehi, Dan Burn, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze; Marcus Rashford, Harry Kane, Noni Madueke.