England Starting XI vs Serbia: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

England XI vs Serbia: Team News and Predicted Line-up for World Cup Qualifier

England continue their World Cup qualifying campaign in Belgrade tonight as Thomas Tuchel looks to build on Saturday’s 2-0 win over Andorra. The match against Serbia presents another important test for the new England manager, who has made clear his intent to rotate within a tightly balanced squad.

Injury Updates and Defensive Options

Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi provided a minor scare at the weekend when he complained of a groin issue at half-time. He played on until the 76th minute before being replaced by Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa. Tuchel admitted afterwards that it was a change he had hoped to avoid, explaining that Harry Kane was the planned substitution instead. The good news for England is that Guehi trained on Monday morning with no setbacks and was included in the travelling party to Belgrade.

At left-back, Tuchel has a decision to make. Newcastle’s Tino Livramento is available, while Tottenham’s uncapped Djed Spence is another option. With the manager only allowed to name 23 players, Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly has been omitted as the 24th man. On the opposite flank, Reece James has impressed Tuchel and should continue in his role at right-back.

Midfield Choices and Attacking Depth

Anthony Gordon is pushing for a start after replacing Marcus Rashford in the second half against Andorra and making a strong impression. Eberechi Eze faces stiff competition from Morgan Gibbs-White and Morgan Rogers for the creative role in midfield, with Tuchel likely to decide late on which player best fits his tactical setup. Noni Madueke is also in contention and is aiming to start consecutive games for his country.

In deeper areas, Declan Rice remains a certainty to anchor midfield, while Livramento could be asked to slot in alongside him. Tuchel is keen to find balance between structure and attacking flair, especially against a Serbia team that is expected to be combative on home soil.

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Key Role for Harry Kane

Tuchel confirmed that Harry Kane will again lead the line, underlining his importance as captain and focal point. Kane’s presence not only offers England goals but also leadership in what promises to be a demanding atmosphere at the Rajko Mitic Stadium.

Predicted England XI vs Serbia

Formation: 4-2-3-1Pickford; James, Konsa, Burn, Spence; Livramento, Rice; Madueke, Rogers, Gordon; Kane

Out: Lewis-Skelly, Stones, Wharton, Bellingham, Palmer, Saka

Kick-off time: 7.45pm BST, Tuesday 9 September 2025Venue: Rajko Mitic Stadium, BelgradeTV: ITV1 and ITVX

England’s clash with Serbia provides Tuchel with another chance to refine his line-up as qualification progresses. The emphasis will be on control in midfield and sharpness in attack, with Kane central to England’s ambitions tonight.