Jordan Pickford dropped as David Moyes’ favourite starts – England predicted XI vs Serbia
Everton’s Jordan Pickford could miss out as England prepare to face Serbia.
Everton have work to do if they are to steer clear of relegation this season, but for the time being, focus is on England’s upcoming encounter with Serbia.
The Three Lions have already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, but their opponents on Thursday are in need of a win.
Thomas Tuchel is expected to ring in the changes, and one could see Pickford drop out of contention.
James Trafford could take Jordan Pickford’s place vs Serbia
Pickford has been immense for Everton this season, and not once has he let his country down when he has been called upon.
However, given the number of games approaching in the Premier League and the lack of importance behind this fixture, Tuchel may opt to drop him on this occasion.
James Trafford has struggled for minutes since his move back to Man City in the summer, and could be handed a chance to get back out on the pitch.
A full-back partnership of Reece James and Nico O’Reilly could be utilised, with John Stones and Marc Guehi predicted to feature in the heart of defence.
Elliot Anderson has been on fire for a struggling Nottingham Forest side this season, and he could retain his place in the starting 11 from England’s 5-0 win over Latvia, with Adam Wharton to feature alongside him.
England have a plethora of elite midfield options, with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall perhaps unfortunate not to be called up on this occasion.
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David Moyes’ favourite to start for England
Phil Foden was recalled into the England squad as a result of his form for Man City, and despite the fact that he often features wide under Pep Guardiola, he could start centrally against Serbia.
It would allow Jarrod Bowen to start on the right, for whom Moyes has previously been full of praise.
Back in 2024, Moyes said: “I’m really pleased for Jarrod. I think his performances recently have gone a wee bit unnoticed because we’ve not played that well.
“Generally, I think the goals will hopefully get him back in Gareth’s thinking, but I’m not saying he’s out of Gareth’s thinking because I think the last squad he was probably in and around it.
“But if you can play wide and you can play centre-forward and you’re a goal scorer, I think you’ll always be interesting to the national manager.”
Marcus Rashford has adapted remarkably well to life in La Liga and could be rewarded with a start for his country, with Harry Kane likely to lead the line once again.
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