BACKED TO THE FUTURE

The old rearguard are under real threat as Guehi, Konsa, James and MLS stake World Cup claim

- BY JOHN CROSS Chief Football Writer X@johncrossmirror

FOR the vast majority of Gareth Southgate's reign, England's first choice back four was set in stone.

Kyle Walker, John Stones, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw were the foundations upon which a successful team was built.

Yet now, arguably the biggest challenge facing Thomas Tuchel is mounting a case for the defence and rebuilding a back line which is capable of winning next year's World Cup.

There could also be pressure on Jordan Pickford for the first time since he was established as England's No.1 more than seven years ago.

Burnley's James Trafford is emerging as a serious long-term alternative as goalkeeper behind what is almost certain to be a new-look back four by next summer's World Cup in the United States.

Walker is 35 with 95 caps, Stones 31 with 83 caps, Maguire 32 with 64 caps and Shaw 29 with 34 caps. A combined age of 127 and a total of 276 caps between them. It is a lot of experience to lose.

Walker is in the squad for the double header with Andorra and Senegal while Stones has joined up for the training camp to continue his rehabilitation in Spain.