Is this the England team that will make a winning start at the World Cup? Jason Burt picks his side to play Tunisia

Gareth Southgate has announced his 23-man squad for the World Cup in Russia this summer. But who should start England's opener against Tunisia? Our Chief Football Correspondent Jason Burt makes his selection. You can offer your starting XI in the comment section below.

Jordan Pickford

It has been a tough first season at Everton for Pickford, and he has undoubtedly been at fault for some of the goals conceded, but his greater distribution skills give him a crucial edge over Jack Butland. That was evidenced in his recent assured display against Holland.

Eric Dier

More likely to be deployed in midfield, especially against stronger nations such as Belgium, Dier has been considered on the right of the back-three by Gareth Southgate. He does not want to play in defence but it will probably prove to be his best position for club and country.

John Stones

Not so long ago the England defence was being built around Stones and that will still probably be the case. But losing his place at Manchester City and then injury is a concern. However Stones remains the best ball-playing defender England have. As long as he concentrates.

Harry Maguire

It has been a strange campaign at Leicester City for Maguire who has caught the eye but also been caught out on occasions, especially against quicker, nimble strikers. But he has done well for England in that back-three. Had Joe Gomez been fit he may not have made the XI.

Kyle Walker

Although Gareth Southgate is giving serious consideration to playing Walker on the right of the back-three, and he did extremely well there, his best position remains at right-back or right-wing back where he can use his incredible ability to get up and down the pitch.

Jordan Henderson

His greater mobility and energy should give Henderson the nod over Dier if England play one deeper lying midfielder. Has grown into the role of Liverpool captain and could well lead England. His passing has become more assured also.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

The 22-year-old could be the wild card pick for the team to add a bit of X-factor and a bit of creativity. Gareth Southgate is an admirer and wants to take him to Russia. Did well on his first England appearance before getting injured in the second game.

Danny Rose

Injury and, also, uncertainty over his future have hampered Rose for more than a year so he may well lose out to Ashley Young. At his best, though, and in tandem with Kyle Walker he is a brilliant, dynamic attacking full-back who is comfortable in the formation England will use.

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Raheem Sterling

It has been an outstanding season for Sterling and Gareth Southgate is considering using him more as a central striker closer to Harry Kane. Has added a calmness in front of goal to his pace and skill and should be one of England’s main men in Russia.

Dele Alli

Whether Alli is in the England team is now touch-and-go with Jesse Lingard having impressed more in recent appearances. However his understanding with Harry Kane should give him the edge even if Gareth Southgate should have no qualms about dropping him if he does not perform.

Harry Kane

The first name on the England team-sheet and the one player who can justifiably lay claim to be termed world-class. May well be captain, also. Hopefully he will be fully fit and firing and England can get the support to him to create chances.

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