Super strikers

If this year’s Champions League is anything to go by, the upcoming World Cup could be one of the most goal-gluttonous yet, with a host of strikers hoping to capitalise on leaky defences in Russia.

The current trend for swarming attacks, led by speedy forwards and daring full-backs, will have the game’s most lethal scorers licking their lips ahead of the opening match today.

Here, we take a look at five penalty-box predators likely to do the most damage in the tournament. Timo Werner

Germany were left with a Miroslav Klose shaped hole after he retired from international football in 2014 but the vacancy looks to have been filled by Werner (right), who hit 21 goals for Leipzig last season. With lightning pace and a cool head in front of goal, the 22-year-old will be eager to make a mark at his first major tournament. Gabriel Jesus

Brazil are hardly lacking for talent in forward positions but Jesus (right) is expected to lead the line, owing to his speed, finishing and quickness of thought around the penalty area. A knee injury in January was Manchester City’s loss but could be Brazil’s gain if Jesus heads into Group E with an extra spring in his step. Expect him to shine. Harry Kane

Kane (right) was officially confirmed as England’s captain last month and he is arguably the only player in Gareth Southgate’s squad among the world’s very best in his position. His form for Tottenham in the Champions League last term, where he scored seven goals in seven games, proves Kane can deliver on the highest stage. If England provide the service, Kane will find the net.