GARETH SOUTHGATE has gone from being spoilt for choice at right-back to an injury crisis in the position.
The England gaffer has been rocked by the news that Reece James could MISS the tournament after suffering a knee injury in the week.
James is the third Three Lions right-back in two weeks to be struck down – following Kyle Walker and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Manchester City star Walker had groin surgery following the 6-3 win over Manchester United at the start of the month and is a major doubt for the tournament.
While Liverpool ace Alexander-Arnold is set for two weeks on the sidelines after picking up an ankle injury in the 3-2 loss to Arsenal – and he is horrendously out of form.
With Southgate’s three first-choice right-backs currently out of action, there is the chance for an unexpected name to book their ticket on the plane to Qatar.
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Alexander-Arnold is expected to recover in time for the tournament, but has come under fire for his performances this season and was left out of England’s matchday squad for the 3-3 draw with Germany last month.
He is set to be fit for the World Cup but with James and Walker doubts, SunSport run through Southgate’s remaining options.
Kieran Trippier
The most experienced of those waiting in the wings, with 37 caps to his name.
Trippier, 32, has been played at left-back by Southgate for England but right-back remains his natural position, and his impressive form for Newcastle this season only strengthens his chances.
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Ben White
The 25-year-old has been superb this season after being displaced in the heart of defence at Arsenal by William Saliba.
Likely to be on the plane for his ability to play both positions, but White’s form at right-back is one encouraging point for Southgate in the midst of the injury crisis.
Kyle Walker-Peters
Southampton ace Walker-Peters does have England experience, playing in the friendlies against Switzerland and Ivory Coast earlier this year.
The 25-year-old has started all nine of Southampton’s Premier League games this season, but is likely to be behind both Trippier and White in the pecking order.
James Justin
Like Trippier, Justin can also play on either side of defence and has one cap to his name.
But with Leicester suffering a torrid season so far, the 24-year-old is not approaching the World Cup in the best of form.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
An outside candidate, the Manchester United defender was tipped for an England call up before falling out of form in recent months.
But Wan-Bissaka is now well down the pecking order at Old Trafford, playing just four minutes of action in all competitions this season.
The 24-year-old has represented both England and DR Congo at youth level, with suggestions last year that he could snub the chance to represent the Three Lions in favour of the African nation.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
