Kobbie Mainoo likely to start for England against Panama in World Cup

Kobbie Mainoo is expected to make his first start for England in the World Cup against Panama. Mainoo has yet to play in the tournament, as manager Thomas Tuchel favored a midfield of Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, and Jude Bellingham in previous matches. Despite a strong opener against Croatia, England struggled in their second game against Ghana, where they could not find the net. Concerns over Rice's fitness have opened the door for Mainoo, who has been training with the team as a potential replacement. Rice is being monitored for a hamstring issue, while Anderson's availability is also under review.

• 10:40 PMYahoo Sports — Kobbie Mainoo in line for first England World Cup start after big development