The greatest spectacle in the beautiful game, with millions watching as 32 teams create history and realise their dreams. We here at Outside of the Boot, as ever will focus our attention at the Young Players in this tournament. See all our 2018 World Cup coverage here.
Marcus Rashford // England // Forward // 20: The Manchester United man is unlikely to be starting for the Three Lions, despite impressing against Costa Rica in a recent friendly. His pace and skill on the break might come in handy for Southgate going deeper into the tournament though. Rashford has had a tough time at club level, with starts becoming a precious commodity after the arrival of Alexis Sanchez. His talent has never been in doubt though, and Southgate’s inclusion of him in the squad is indicative of the high estimation of his abilities in the eyes of those that matter.
Michael Murillo // Panama // Defender // 22: Panama are bound to be doing some defending against teams like Belgium and England in the group stages, with most experts ruling progress for them an impossibility. If they are to defy the expectations though, Murillo, the New York Red Bulls defender will need to prove his worth. The young full back has shown great attacking potential during his time in New York, but might need to curb his natural instincts in order to help his team. Panama haven’t had the most successful build up to this tournament, and will need him, and others, to pull up their socks if they are to perform.
Mouez Hassen // Tunisia // Goalkeeper // 23: Yet another player whose performances are going to be important for his team. Most experts believe that Tunisia will set up defensively against teams like England and Belgium. Doing so effectively is heavily dependent on the goalkeeper performing well, as he is bound to have some saves to make. Hassen plies his trade in France with Chateauroux, and the World Cup is surely the biggest stage of his career so far. Impress here, and he can become a legend.
