Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup
Selection questions frame England narrative
England’s meeting with Serbia at Wembley comes at a time when the search for balance, identity and competition within the team feels particularly acute. Much of the conversation focused on Jude Bellingham, who is set to make his first England appearance since June, but the nuances around his role became an intriguing subplot. As Thomas Tuchel says: “At the moment, the competition is between the two of them. They are friends, so it can also be a friendly competition.” The reference is to Bellingham and Morgan Rogers, both vying for the No.10 position in a structure that Tuchel has been reluctant to change.
What is striking is not simply who will play ahead of the World Cup, but what England’s planned line-up says about the wider tactical direction. The head coach has placed emphasis on keeping much of the existing ‘structure’ intact and is expected to persist with his favored 4-2-3-1, a shape which has been his anchor since he took charge.
Midfield dilemmas and returning names
Bellingham and Phil Foden are both back in the team after missing September and October, but neither is guaranteed a starting place. Rogers, meanwhile, made a compelling case for continuity, with Tuchel saying he would not make “dramatic changes to the team”.
At the base of the midfield, Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson form an increasingly cohesive duo. Tuchel’s confidence in them suggests that England will not deviate from the double pivot that has been present for two months, providing security but also responsibility in the progression of attacks.
Defensive adjustments and forced absences
Marc Guehi will remain in the squad but will not feature due to a bruised ankle, a minor but unwelcome disruption. Nick Pope and Anthony Gordon have both withdrawn through injury, with James Trafford and Trevoh Chalobah replacing them on Tuesday. Ezri Konsa, who took over his media duties at the pre-match press conference, looks ready to start.
These adjustments around the edges reinforce the feeling that Tuchel’s decisions are an evolution rather than an overhaul, with availability determining choices as much as form.
England’s planned line-up
England predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford, James, Konsa, Stones, Spence, Anderson, Rice, Saka, Rogers, Rashford, Kane.
Injured: Guehi, Gordon, Pope.
Time and date: 7:45 p.m. GMT today, Thursday, November 13, 2025.
Location: Wembley Stadium.
TV channel: ITV.
