GARETH SOUTHGATE has a number of decisions to make regarding his team selection ahead of facing Bulgaria on Saturday.

The 5pm Wembley kick-off gives England another chance to open up a lead atop Group A and step towards a spot at Euro 2020.

Exactly what line-up the Three Lions boss goes with depends on how willing he is to swap out-of-form regulars out for hungry debutants.

Mason Mount and James Maddison will feel they have done enough to warrant a starting spot after strong performances early in the season.

But their fate may be decided by what formation Southgate opts for, with plenty of options on the table.

With two at the back, Joe Gomez has long been ahead of Michael Keane in the coach's thoughts but the right-back spot is free given the decision to rest Kyle Walker.

Versus Bulgaria, Trent Alexander-Arnold presents the most attacking option for the hosts and is likely to edge Kieran Trippier with Aaron Wan-Bissaka injured.

The competition on the other flank is also fierce, Danny Rose and Ben Chilwell competing with the Tottenham man more experienced in a 5-3-2 formation if Southgate prefers.

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The previous preference of playing Jesse Lingard and Dele Alli is under threat due to poor form and lack of match sharpness, respectively, opening a chance for Mount.

Two goals in fives games have earned the Chelsea youngster a crack at featuring alongside trusted Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson.

The prospect of Declan Rice starting may be best served if Southgate wants a solid base that allows others to roam forward, especially after dropping Eric Dier – who was preferred in the Nations League semi-final with the Netherlands.

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Ross Barkley and James Maddison are in the mix for the advanced midfield roles up for grabs in 4-3-3 and 5-3-2 setups.

Should a 4-2-3-1 be preferred however, a more trusted forward such as Marcus Rashford could start in the vital central role behind the striker despite his middling form.

The Manchester United striker may find himself benched given Harry Kane's step above him in the pecking order – albeit with the Tottenham forward seemingly knackered.

Southgate's mind will be made up when picking wingers given Raheem Sterling and Jadon Sancho's rapid starts to the campaign.

A return of three goals and four assists in five games gives the 19-year-old the perfect base to produce his best for his country.

Therefore Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, along with the likes of Harry Winks and Callum Wilson, may have to be patient and take their chances as a substitute.

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