World Cup 2018: Analysing England's 23-man squad

Defenders

Trent Alexander-Arnold earned his spot with a fantastic season for Liverpool

Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold finds his way into the squad on the back of an exceptional season at Liverpool. The full-back has been a breath of fresh air at the Kop and has impressed everyone with his non-stop energy and pressing.

In 34 appearances for the Reds this season, the 19-year-old has put in 2.1 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per game, and 2.3 clearances per game. His pace down the flanks will be the most important for England when they come up against the bigger teams later on in the tournament.

Tottenham's Kieran Trippier has also found his way into the squad as a full-back. He has consistently been a part of Pochettino's young squad and has the habit of bombing forward and helping out in offence.

His 8 assists across all competitions will be a major factor in his selection, as well as his partnership with Kane. In defense, the right back as 2.1 tackles and 1.9 clearances per game to go with his other assets.

Another Tottenham defender finding his name is Danny Rose. This might be a surprising inclusion, as Rose isn't a regular in the squad and has spent a lot of time in the bench this season.

Having played only a handful of games (only 10 games in the league), Rose's form isn't stellar and many would have preferred Smalling to have his spot. However, Southgate has gone with Rose and he might get a rare few minutes against the weaker sides.

Maguire has been solid at the back for a generally poor Leicester City

If anyone has earned their spot as a centre back this season, it has to be Harry Maguire. Coming in to replace Robert Huth at Leicester, Maguire has had a season to remember for the foxes. His physicality at the back will be something England badly needs, as the rest of their players have the knack of being bullied off the ball.

With 2 goals and 4 assists this season, his offensive contribution cannot be denied as he loves to make runs forward. But his defensive game is even better - 4.6 clearances, 1.7 tackles and 1.3 interceptions per game are more than testament to his case to be part of the starting XI.

Phil Jones suffers from the misfortune of missing out a lot of games due to injury, but when he is fit, he has been an absolute rock at the back for Manchester United. Together with Bailly and de Gea, Jones is part of the PL side with the most clean sheets this season and it is no mere coincidence.

Unlike his counterparts, Jones rarely moves out of position and is often the last man standing when attacking set pieces. His lack of pace is matched by his positioning and he is often the difference between a corner and a goal - as made evident by his 5.6 clearances and 1.1 tackles per game.

John Stones is another peculiar pick, considering that he hasn't been a consistent enough starter for Manchester City this season. Stones does have the tendency to make the occasional mistake, mistakes that will not tend to go unpunished in the World Cup and without a miracle, he will spend most of the tournament warming the bench.

Walker will play a crucial part in both offense and defense

Unlike Stones, Kyle Walker has had an instrumental season as a full back at Manchester City and his selection in the squad was probably the easiest decision for Southgate. He has been stellar in both offense and defense for the PL champions and will definitely start at right back.

With 7 assists so far, his crosses into the box will make the difference against teams that put men behind the ball. His defensive work-rate is not far behind either with 2.1 clearances and 1.4 tackles per game.

Gary Cahill's experience will be vital to England's progress in the tournament

Amidst this sea of new blood and potential, Gary Cahill remains the sole experienced veteran and it was probably the reason for his inclusion. Although he hasn't had a great season at Chelsea, his quality and leadership at the back cannot be denied.

While Cahill is not going to start every game, he does make for an exceptional back-up. He is currently on a resurgence towards the late end of this season, and do not be surprised if he starts at CB.