Thomas Tuchel will make the biggest call on his starting XI for this last 16 tie with Mexico.It is worth remembering that England boss Tuchel is incredibly secretive about his choices - and makes a point of telling the players to keep it secret.The players have been told just hours before the game for previous games so they are probably finding out around now…Do not read anything into Jordan Henderson doing the press conference ahead of the game. He is a senior player and Tuchel wanted a strong voice.‌There have definitely been noises about Ezri Konsa switching to right back with John Stones coming in to partner Marc Guehi for his experience, big-game mentality and quality on the ball.Right back has been such an issue that would not surprise me. Tuchel has already said that Declan Rice is playing midfield so forget that as an option.Tuchel has declared Jarell Quansah fit so, again, that is a strong possibility.Bukayo Saka on the right might be a choice - but can you trust his fitness? Noni Madueke struggled both offensively and defensively last time out.‌Marcus Rashford had a poor game against DR Congo and, if fit after turning his ankle a little in training, then Anthony Gordon is surely the option.Get the latest World Cup 2026 news in your inbox with our Make Football Great Again newsletterGordon is better defensively but unfortunately neither he or Rashford have played well in any game they have started and have been better from the bench.‌Tuchel has insisted that the altitude in the Azteca is going to hit hard in the first 20 minutes so England must start better, be prepared and be better than they have in other games.Mexican journalists also believe that the last 20 minutes can hit opponents hard. England need to start and finish well.If you have not seen him already, Mexico’s Julián Quiñones is such a good player from the left. He’s been fabulous. That also lends itself to Konsa maybe.John Cross' guesstimate England XI vs Mexico: Pickford; Konsa, Stones, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon, Kane.‌Ryan TaylorThis game could well be defined by what England do at right-back. I'm expecting Ezri Konsa to slide across, which would mean John Stones partnering Marc Guehi at centre-back.If England can nullify Julian Quiñones, they have a very good chance of victory because outside of Raul Jimenez, who is a veteran by the way, he is their biggest attacking threat.A strong start is key here because Mexico, powered by the ferocity of the Azteca, have the ability to blow teams away inside the first 'quarter' so to speak.‌I would, though it's unlikely, like to see Thomas Tuchel be brave and bold in his selection and maybe move Declan Rice to right-back.That would enable Jude Bellingham to play slightly deeper in a more tactically disciplined role, as I just don't think Rice and Elliot Anderson are that effective together.It would also enable Tuchel to bring in Morgan Rogers, who has the athleticism and dribbling ability to really cause Mexico problems.‌I would start Anthony Gordon on the back of his assists against DR Congo and Bukayo Saka on the right as England need to be smart with the ball.Additionally, my wildcard pick - to play some part in the game - is Ollie Watkins. He stepped up at the Euros and has the qualities to stretch opponents. He works hard and can score goals on the break.It does not necessarily mean you have to withdraw Harry Kane, who can always slide back one to No.10.He has the class to create and score as a No.10. England need to give Kane the ball, it's no good if he's doing countless shuttle runs in high altitude, knackering himself out.‌Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Content cannot be displayed without consent