FIFA World Cup 2018: How England should line up

The English football team has a lot to prove on the international level. Their performance in recent World Cups have been ordinary and not up to the expectations of their home fans. Gareth Southgate, the Manager would be hoping that his team goes as ahead as possible during the Mega-event in June later this year.Let's have a look at how Gareth Southgate should use a 4-3-3 formation to build a strong and balanced lineupGoalkeeper and defendersJack Butland should get the nod ahead o Joe HartEngland don't boast of world-class keepers but from given choices, they should go with Jack Butland over Joe Hart. Butland has been a better performer than the latter this season. He has made 1.49 saves per goal as compared to Hart's 1.1 saves per goal. Butland's distribution accuracy is also slightly better than his counterpart (53% as compared to 50%). Butland surely has a long way to go in his career but he should be the one guarding the sticks this time while Hart becomes the second choice keeper for Southgate.The first name in the defensive line has to be Gary Cahill. The experienced centre-back would be captaining the side for the tournament. The Chelsea star has been playing well in the premier league so far. He has made one important interception almost every game apart from his 88% passing completion. Cahill also has a 100% successful take-on rate.The other centre-back spot is occupied by John Stones. The 23-year-old has been a very good defender for Manchester City. Playing under Guardiola, Stones has completed 96% of his passes and also boasts a perfect 100% successful take-on rate. He seems to be a dependable defender for the English side.Phil Jones and Chris Smalling can be the substitutes for the centre-half position.Kyle Walker brings pace and penetration to the tableOn the right-back spot, we have another Manchester city player in Kyle Walker. He has been performing outstandingly for City this season. He has created 21 chances in the Premier League and also has five assists to his name. The attacking full-back will surely be a key player for Southgate.On the left side, we have Ryan Bertrand. The Southampton starter is a very balanced footballer. He has created 26 chances and made three assists in the League for his side but he is more about his defensive abilities. He has also made 32 crucial interceptions for Southampton.Luke Shaw and Danny Rose can be great alternatives for the left-back spot.

FIFA World Cup 2018: How England should line up

Playing XI