Who makes England's squad? Sportsmail predicts who goes and stays

With just eight months to go until the World Cup, Gareth Southgate has some big decisions on the horizon as he weighs up which players to take with him to Qatar.

England will be hoping they can take 26 players, as was the case at Covid-hit Euro 2020.

Here, Sportsmail predicts who the England boss will pick for the tournament.

GOALKEEPERS

Jordan Pickford — England’s undisputed No 1. saved England against Switzerland on Saturday with two fine stops. Southgate was quick to shoot down what consequences Everton’s potential relegation would have on his World Cup chances. The England boss will be desperate for Pickford to avoid that scenario.

Aaron Ramsdale — The closest emerging challenger to Pickford. The Arsenal goalkeeper has enjoyed an excellent first season at the Emirates and was due to stake his England claim during this international break before injury. Barring any catastrophes, he should be on the plane.

Sam Johnstone — Southgate and goalkeeping coach Martyn Margetson are big fans of the West Bromwich Albion man. He has continued to be selected, even though he is playing in the Championship. Johnson will leave West Brom this summer and will likely earn a Premier League move. If he is playing regularly in the top-flight, he will go to Qatar.

DEFENDERS

Harry Maguire — His form has been poor for Manchester United in recent months and there were even a few boos on Saturday when his name was read out over the Tannoy. But Maguire remains one of Southgate’s most trusted lieutenants. Barring injury, he is on the plane and plays.

John Stones — Another certainty to go to Qatar, provided he is playing for Manchester City. He was due to play against the Swiss before sustaining a minor injury in the warm-up. His partnership with