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Will Lancaster

USMNT predicted lineup vs England as Pulisic and Turner make World Cup starting XI

There has been a few upsets at the World Cup already this tournament - so it wouldn't be crazy to think that England could drop points to the USA for the second time in 12 years on the global stage.

Saudi Arabia's win over Argentina, Japan's late crusade against Germany and Denmark dropping points to Tunisia has highlighted just how well England did to smash Iran 6-2; especially with such ease. But USA's threat against Wales and their 1-1 draw against the Three Lions in 2010 will spark some fire into the belly of Gregg Berhalter's men.

Of course, an upset is not completely off the cards, and the American side have a lot of quality in the top European leagues that will certainly cause harm to Gareth Southgate's plans. But just who will they start in the World Cup clash in Qatar on Friday? Football.london looks at the predicted lineup.

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Predicted USA team to face England

Matt Turner - The Arsenal goalkeeper impressed against Wales, keeping out a smart Ben Davies header and almost saving a Gareth Bale penalty. He didn't look troubled, and that should see him keep his place.

Sergino Dest - Dest is the most prestigious of the USA defence, having moved from Ajax to Barcelona in 2020 for a fee of around £20m. If he is match fit, given that there were questions around him starting against Wales, then the explosive full-back should be one of the first names on the team sheet.

Walker Zimmermann - Zimmermann was the player who gave the penalty away against Wales with his rash challenge on Gareth Bale, and fans will be sceptical about him returning to the fore; though his leadership qualities should see him into the side.

Tim Ream - Alongside him will be Ream, who could use his experience in the English leagues to drag his team over the line and nick a point or even a win against the Three Lions.

Antonee Robinson - Robinson; born in Milton Keynes, made in Everton's youth academy, starring for Fulham - but he's America's starting left-back. Rapid, sturdy and with plenty of Premier League experience, he will be a test for Bukayo Saka.

Weston McKennie - McKennie is by far and away the most experienced midfielder that USA have at the World Cup, and despite his injury issues at present, he is almost a guaranteed starter. The Juventus star came off early against Wales - perhaps as a precaution to win the other two group games to go further into the tournament.

Tyler Adams - Adams has been a revelation throughout his career; already performing extremely well in the MLS, Bundesliga and Premier League at 23, English fans will know him for his tireless performances for Leeds United. He will be crucial in affording no space for Mason Mount and Jude Bellingham to strut their stuff.

Brenden Aaronson - Adams' teammate Aaronson has also been superb at Elland Road this season, and his dribbling, work-rate and never-say-die attitude are incredibly desirable assets. The ginger midfielder is likely to cause problems for Gregg Berhalter's men.

Giovanni Reyna - Sunderland-born Reyna, son of Manchester City hero Claudio, is on the books at Borussia Dortmund. Perhaps lacking physicality, his on-the-ball abilities are clear for all to see, and on the counter attack he could punish England.

Timothy Weah - Weah, son of George, is another footballing child who has burst onto the world stage. Maybe not as good as his father, but spells at Lille, Celtic and PSG have seen him shoot to stardom. Josh Sargent failed to produce the goods against Wales, and that could see Weah come into the fold with a more counter-attacking view.

Christian Pulisic - Now for the star man. Christian Pulisic has been consistent for years, at both Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea, where English fans have seen him score in an FA Cup final, a Champions League semi-final and more. His pace and directness will be key on the counter attack for the Stars and Stripes.

USA predicted lineup vs England: Turner; Dest, Zimmerman, Ream, Robinson; Adams, McKennie; Reyna; Weah, Wright, Pulisic.

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