England take on Colombia in the last 16 of the World Cup on Tuesday – a game Gareth Southgate rates as the country’s biggest for a decade.
Here, Press Association Sport looks at the key issues on the eve of the match.
Rested development
Ready ?? pic.twitter.com/WC6ySRO68z
— Jesse Lingard (@JesseLingard) July 2, 2018
Southgate courted a backlash by making sweeping changes to his side for the final group game against Belgium but did so with complete clarity of purpose. As well as giving game time to his squad men his primary motivation was to keep his key players fresh for the rigours of knockout football. Much was made of a possible loss of momentum but if key men like Harry Kane, Jordan Henderson and Kieran Trippier turn up looking fresh and ready to set the tempo that will go a long way to vindicating the gamble. If extra-time beckons, his caution will surely be proved right.
England on the spot
Pickford needs a performance
Kane the danger but can Sterling share the load?
James and the giant injury worry
