England XI vs Albania: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for Thomas Tuchel's first game | OneFootball

A new era officially begins for the Three Lions in opening 2026 World Cup qualifier at Wembley

England host Albania in their first 2026 World Cup qualifier tonight, with Thomas Tuchel set to make an intriguing first team selection at Wembley.

New manager Tuchel sprung a number of surprises when naming his maiden Three Lions squad last week, most notably in handing Jordan Henderson a recall.

Reece James is hoping to win his first cap in two years, having been immediately recalled by Tuchel, under whom he won the Champions League at Chelsea.

John Stones is another Gareth Southgate regular who misses this first squad through injury, meaning there is an opening at centre-back alongside Marc Guehi. The identity of Declan Rice’s midfield partner will again be the subject of much intrigue following Conor Gallagher’s omission and Henderson’s shock return.

England captain Harry Kane is already familiar with Thomas Tuchel’s methods from Bayern Munich

AFP via Getty Images

Of the 26-man squad Tuchel initially named last week, only Cole Palmer is missing, with the playmaker having picked up a minor injury ahead of Chelsea’s defeat by Arsenal last weekend. Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White was the beneficiary, earning a late call-up in Palmer’s place.

However, Gibbs-White has been omitted from the 23-man matchday squad alongside Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah and Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

The squeeze on attacking positions behind captain Harry Kane is also eased by the absence of Bukayo Saka, a Southgate favourite who is still on his way back from a hamstring injury.

Kane is certain to lead the line at Wembley, with Dominic Solanke in as striking back-up while Ollie Watkins is out injured.

Predicted England XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Walker, Konsa, Guehi, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Jones; Foden, Bellingham, Rogers; Kane

Injured: Palmer

Time and date: 7.45pm GMT on Friday March 21, 2025

Referee: Alejandro Hernandez (Spain)

How to watch: ITV