Joe Gomez and Harry Winks to start for England against Spain in UEFA Nations League

Southgate says Seville encounter represents "as difficult a test as you can have in European football"; Watch UEFA Nations League clash live on Sky Sports Main Event from 7pm on Monday

By Rory O'Callaghan

Gareth Southgate has high hopes for Liverpool defender Joe Gomez

England manager Gareth Southgate says he will continue to give opportunities to younger players, with Joe Gomez and Harry Winks set to start against Spain.

Southgate confirmed Gomez will come into the side to replace John Stones, who is suspended for Monday's game after picking up a yellow card during the 0-0 draw with Croatia on Friday.

Live UEFA Nations League

Jordan Henderson was also ruled out of the Spain match after being booked during the goalless draw in Rijeka, and Sky sources understand Tottenham midfielder Harry Winks will start in his place for the match in Seville.

"It's probably pretty clear Joe Gomez will be coming in for John [Stones]," said Southgate. "He's in really good form for his club and his matches for us against Spain and Brazil have been really polished.

Image: Gomez, 21, will win his fifth international cap in Seville on Monday night

"He's a young defender but he is a very good defender, good athleticism, uses the ball well. I'm looking forward to seeing him in this game. It's another opportunity for us to look at younger players.

Advertisement

"We're slowly building a squad of players who are comfortable playing at the highest level."

Highlights of England's goalless draw away to Croatia in the UEFA Nations League Group A4 on Friday

England already trail Spain by five points in Group A4 after being held by Croatia, and Southgate is expecting another tough outing against Luis Enrique's side, who beat Wales 4-1 in a friendly earlier this week.

Also See:

"It's as difficult a test as you can have in European football at the moment, if not world football," said Southgate.

"But we're ready."

Play Super 6

Predict 6 correct scores for your chance to win Jeff's £1 million.

Outbrain