Today on LiveScore: Illness and injuries hamper England

Matthew Storey

LiveScore

International football returns tonight as countries across Europe look to book their spot at the 2022 World Cup.

Gareth Southgate's England play Albania tomorrow evening and preparations for the clash have been hit by injuries and illness.

England focus

A number of withdrawals mean Southgate will be without some of his England regulars against Albania and San Marino.

But that opens up opportunities for others and Arsenal youngster Emile Smith Rowe is one of the beneficiaries.

Called up to replace the injured Marcus Rashford, Smith Rowe will want to replicate his club form for the Three Lions.

One area that constantly gives Southgate a selection headache is the right-back spot.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James, Kyle Walker and even the dropped Kieran Trippier could all lay claim to being the country’s first choice.

We discuss who should be in the England boss’ starting XI.

Portugal take on the Republic of Ireland tonight knowing three points are vital in the battle for World Cup qualification.

Cristiano Ronaldo's side are one point behind Serbia at the top of Group A but this is their game in hand on their rivals.

And with the two meeting in a group decider on Sunday, the Portuguese will land a huge blow if they can see off the struggling Irish.

One man who could be key for them is Manchester City full-back Joao Cancelo — we turn the spotlight on the 27-year-old.

Teams will continue to book their spots at Qatar 2022 over the next six days of international football.

Keep checking our guide to those who have qualified to make sure you know who will be lining up at the World Cup next November.

And the end of this stage of qualifying means the next edition of the Nations League is drawing ever closer.

We have put everything you need to know about the popular UEFA tournament all in one place.

Aston Villa have swooped to hire Steven Gerrard as their new head coach.

We have all the details on the Liverpool legend's appointment, as he leaves defending Scottish champions Rangers.

The fact we are in an international break does stop the transfer rumour mill from churning too.

Check out the latest gossip from the world of club football in our daily column.