World Cup 2018: 5 reasons why England will win the World Cup

#2 Stones and Maguire have surprised us all

Colombia v England - FIFA World Cup 2018 - Round of 16 - Spartak Stadium

This seemed an unlikely double act a few months ago, but it seems to be working in Russia. England have gone into the tournament lining up in an unfamiliar system with three at the back, and it appears to have bought out the best in Maguire and Stones. It perhaps hasn’t had the same effect on Kyle Walker, who still appears to be a little bit uncomfortable at centre back.

We have seen the pair perform well for their club sides, and they have bought that form into the World Cup. Stones made his mark with two goals against Panama, the first for his national side. Maguire has also impressed on the ball as well as off it. His ability to bring the ball out of defence into midfield has been crucial for England, and has helped them outnumber sides in the centre of the park.