6 PLAYERS TO WATCH

Jamal Musiala GERMANY

Musiala (left) chose to play for Germany rather than England. He’s only 19 but they need his goal threat. He has scored 12 for Bayern Munich this season and has proved he can step up for the big occasions.

Neymar BRAZIL

The balance of the Brazil team suits him perfectly. More so than at PSG, he has players around him who will do his defensive running for him. He’s highly motivated having been injured during the 2014 World Cup.

Aurelien Tchouameni FRANCE

How many 22-year-olds could be given the responsibility of replacing N’Golo Kante? Tchouameni has big boots to fill but he can pass, scrap and receives the ball well in tight situations.

Rafael Leao PORTUGAL

England fans might not know too much about him unless they follow Italy’s Serie A but believe me, he is a phenomenal talent. I’ve watched him at AC Milan and he’s quick, powerful and skilful. He gets fans off their seats with excitement. Can be used wide or as an alternative to Cristiano Ronaldo for whatever reason.

Dusan Vlahovic SERBIA

If he and Fulham’s prolific striker Aleksandar Mitrovic are both fit, Serbia are going to cause problems for any opponent. Vlahovic is tall and technically accomplished. Juventus paid Fiorentina £67million for him and he’s proving to be a natural goalscorer for them.

Brenden Aaronson USA

He’s been brilliant for Leeds this season as an attacking midfielder or winger and the conditions in Qatar might suit him because he’s one of the fittest players in the Premier League. I predict the USA will qualify alongside England from Group B, and Aaronson will be instrumental in this.