Gareth to give Saka the nod over Foden

BuKAYO sAKA is set to pip Phil Foden to a starting role in England’s World Cup opener against iran today as gareth southgate prepares to go gung-ho in Doha.

The England manager has been deliberating whether to play saka or Foden at the Khalifa stadium, but it is understood the Arsenal star is hopeful of getting the nod.

The news will come as a surprise given Foden’s form for manchester City this season.

But saka (left) is in line to be rewarded for his superb season with the Premier League leaders. southgate is set to play a back four in what is expected to be an attacking line-up — including teenage sensation Jude Bellingham. There has been a clamour for Bellingham, 19, to start the tournament following another impressive season in the Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund. southgate is set to keep faith with Harry maguire in central defence despite his problems at club level with manchester united. City’s John stones is expected to play next to him.

Kieran Trippier and Luke shaw are hopeful of being selected as full backs, while Declan Rice and mason mount could get the nod alongside Bellingham in midfield. Raheem sterling and Harry Kane should join saka in attack with regular no 1 Jordan Pickford in goal. southgate stressed yesterday that he plans to rotate his team through the group stages. That suggests Foden could get his chance against the usA on Friday or Wales four days later.

Kyle Walker is not ready to be involved against iran as he continues to work up to full fitness after groin surgery, but the City defender expects to be ready for the usA game.

James maddison has been ruled out of the iran opener after missing training again yesterday due to a knee problem.