England face Colombia in the last 16 of the World Cup in a match Gareth Southgate has hailed as England’s ‘biggest in a decade’.
Southgate rung the changes in the Three Lions’ loss against Belgium– replacing eight of the 11 who played against Panama in preparation for their last-16 knockout clash.
But the England boss is set to recall the players he rested, including captain Harry Kane, who is leading the race for the Golden Boot with 5 goals.
Dele Alli is also expected to return to replace Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the line-up having missed England’s 6-1 victory over Panama with injury.
Colombia are monitoring the fitness of their star player James Rodriguez, who hobbled off with injury in their 1-0 over Senegal.
A scan on the midfielder’s calf revealed no muscle tear but it is unlikely he will start the game.
However, the Colombian’s have been boosted with the news that Abel Aguilar has been given the all clear following his muscle problem and is available to start for Colombia.
MM spoke to some England and Colombian fans in the run-up to the game about their chances.
