Predicting England's World Cup Squad

Until the recent news of his season ending injury, Joe Gomez occupied this space, following strong, albeit limited performances for both Liverpool and England this season. However with the youngster ruled out after undergoing ankle surgery, the race for the fourth and final centre back role is on, with Phil Jones, Gary Cahill, Alfie Mawson, and James Tarkowski all looking to make the cut.

While any of these would make a decent selection, Phil Jones' balance of youth and experience will see him win this race. At just 26 years old, the former Blackburn Rovers player has 24 caps to his name, and has been named in the squad for two out of England's last three major tournaments.

Jones, throughout his career with Blackburn, Manchester United, and England, has made and solidified a reputation as a utility player. Competent anywhere along the back, but best at either centre back or right back, Jones is also capable of stepping forward into a Central Midfield role. While he is unlikely to start any games, Jones is the perfect candidate to step up should there be any injuries or suspensions within the first team.