Who will start for England against Croatia on Sunday?
Since yesterday, Jack Grealish has been cut from 9/4 into a best price of 11/8 to start England’s opening match of Group D against Croatia in the European Championships.
The English midfielder is as short as 5/4 with some bookmakers after an eye-catching performance against Romania which saw him win the penalty that ensured England head into Euro 2020 with a win. Grealish is one of many in-form attacking talents that Gareth Southgate has at his disposal but is fancied by a number of punters to edge out the likes of Jadon Sancho at 21/10, Marcus Rashford at 10/11 and Raheem Sterling at 5/6 to secure a spot in England’s starting XI.
The Aston Villa captain has received widespread praise from England pundits and fans alike with his ability to add a new dimension in the attacking third. His willingness to run at defenders proved to be invaluable in England’s warm up games and may well be key to unlocking Croatia’s defence come Sunday.
Contenders odds
Odds for Tyrone Mings to start for England against Croatia have also shortened dramatically from 7/2 to a best price of 11/10. With significant doubts over Harry Maguire’s 21/10 fitness, Southgate will need reinforcements to fill up to three centre back spots and bookmakers expect Mings to be at the forefront of the manager’s thoughts.
Jordan Henderson’s long-awaited return from injury against Romania also caused some notable movements in the market with the Liverpool captain shortening from 9/4 into 7/4. With an important 45 minutes under his belt, Henderson will now compete with the likes of Declan Rice, Kalvin Phillips and Jude Bellingham for a starting spot in central midfield.
