England and the Czech Republic are both guaranteed a spot in the last-16 at Euro 2020 but top spot in Group D is still up for grabs.
After a dramatic final round of fixtures in Group B on Monday, England know that they are already through to the knockout phase before even kicking a ball against the Czech Republic.
Belgium’s victory over Finland means England, the Czech Republic, Sweden and France have already qualified even if they go on to finish third in their respective groups.
Debate has been raging about whether it would be better for England to finish first, second or third when trying to plot an easier path to the final, and Gareth Southgate could rotate his XI slightly to ensure his star men are fresh for the next stage.
England Yet to Come to Life
Expectations were high for England ahead of the competition after reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup.
But they have failed to hit the ground running after scoring just once in their two outings, while the goalless draw with Scotland at Wembley on Friday was hugely underwhelming.
Performing in the group stage isn’t always a measure of success, something 2016 winners Portugal, who failed to win a group game at that competition, will attest to.
Tuesday’s clash with the Czech Republic could offer up the opportunity for fringe players to stake their claim.
England can be at 5/9 to win at Wembley with the Czech Republic priced at 13/2, while the draw is available at 53/20.
Classy Kane Eager to Get Off the Mark
England’s run to the last four at the World Cup in Russia came about largely due to the efforts of Harry Kane in the final third.
The Tottenham ace netted six goals to win the Golden Boot but he has yet to open his account at this competition.
Indeed, Kane has struggled to have any notable impact in England’s opening two matches and the Three Lions have only registered once courtesy of Raheem Sterling.
With changes potentially afoot from Southgate, it’s difficult to single out a player to score, but the manager has come out to back Kane and suggested he will start this clash.
Kane, who has netted 34 goals in 56 appearances for England, hasn’t endured too many goal droughts during his career and he offers value at 7/5 in the anytime goalscorer market.
Returning Duo Can Help Seal Shutout
Manchester United centre back Harry Maguire and Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson both look set to make their first appearance at the competition against the Czech Republic.
The Premier League duo both ended their respective domestic seasons with injuries and have been building up fitness levels since the tournament kicked off.
Southgate has confirmed the pair will get some much-needed minutes under their belt in the final group engagement.
Mason Mount’s unavailability opens up a spot in midfield while Maguire could come in to replace Tyrone Mings.
England are yet to concede at the competition and with the added experience of Maguire and Henderson they could be set for another clean sheet.
An England win to nil, which can be backed at 5/4, looks the way to go in this one.
*All odds correct at time of writing
