What a thrilling moment in English football! Jude Bellingham is poised to make his long-awaited comeback for the England national team against Serbia at Wembley tonight, marking his first appearance since June. But here’s where it gets really intriguing—will he secure the coveted No10 position, or will Morgan Rodgers hold onto it? Let’s dive into the latest team news, predicted lineups, and all the details to keep you in the loop for this exciting international clash.
Bellingham’s return has everyone buzzing, especially with Thomas Tuchel hinting at a fierce battle between him and Rodgers for that pivotal attacking midfield role ahead of the upcoming World Cup. It’s a friendly rivalry among teammates, but one that could shape England’s fortunes. And this is the part most people miss—the competition isn’t just about talent; it’s about how each player’s style fits into Tuchel’s vision, potentially influencing England’s tactics in major tournaments.
Tuchel has emphasized maintaining much of the team’s core structure, suggesting continuity despite the absences. Both Bellingham and Phil Foden are back in the fold after missing out in September and October, which is fantastic news for squad depth. However, fans might be surprised to hear that Tuchel could opt not to start either of them against Serbia, sticking instead to his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. For beginners in football tactics, this setup means four defenders at the back, two holding midfielders to control the game, three attacking midfielders behind a lone striker—think of it as a balanced system that allows for quick transitions and creative play.
Speaking about the No10 spot, Tuchel shared some insightful words: ‘At the moment the competition is between the two of them. They are friends, so it can also be a friendly competition.’ It’s a refreshing take on squad dynamics, showing how healthy competition can elevate the entire team. And this is where controversy might spark—should Tuchel prioritize experience with Rodgers, who has been in the role lately, or unleash Bellingham’s star power right away? Opinions are divided, with some arguing for immediate change while others advocate for patience.
Looking at the midfield, Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson have formed a solid partnership in the deep-lying roles over the past couple of months, and it’s expected to stay that way. This pair provides the engine room, shielding the defense and launching attacks—a crucial element in Tuchel’s system, almost like the unsung heroes who make the flashy forwards shine.
On the injury front, Marc Guehi is sidelined with a bruised ankle and won’t feature against Serbia, though he’ll stick with the squad for recovery purposes. Nick Pope and Anthony Gordon, both from Newcastle, have also departed due to injuries, with James Trafford and Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah stepping in as replacements announced on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Ezri Konsa made a strong impression during Wednesday’s pre-match press conference, signaling he’s likely to get the nod to start. These changes could subtly alter the team’s dynamics, perhaps giving younger players like Trafford a chance to impress under pressure.
Based on the latest insights, here’s our predicted England XI in the 4-2-3-1 formation: Jordan Pickford in goal; Reece James, Ezri Konsa, John Stones, and Djed Spence forming the back four; Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice anchoring the midfield; Bukayo Saka, Morgan Rodgers, and Marcus Rashford in the attacking trio; with Harry Kane leading the line up front.
Players currently injured and unavailable: Marc Guehi, Anthony Gordon, and Nick Pope.
The match kicks off at 7:45pm GMT today, Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the iconic Wembley Stadium. Catch all the action live on ITV.
But here’s a thought-provoking question: Do you agree with Tuchel’s approach of keeping the team structure similar, or should he shake things up more with Bellingham’s return? And who do you think deserves that No10 spot—Bellingham for his world-class talent or Rodgers for his recent form? Share your opinions in the comments below; we’d love to hear your take on this potential game-changer!