When is the England squad announcement? Date, UK time and team predictions ahead of Switzerland and Ivory Coast friendlies

After four months without international football, England are set to resume action later this month as Wembley Stadium hosts two friendlies.

The Three Lions will first face Switzerland in their first match on Saturday 26 March with a 17:30 kick off.

Gareth Southgate will then lead the side out against Ivory Coast three days later in their first meeting ever.

The Elephants’ side will likely feature Premier League stars such as Eric Bailly, Maxwel Cornet and Nicolas Pepe.

There has been a lot of talk about who should be included in England’s squad, with a number of this season’s biggest talents expected to worm their way in and knock some of the Euros stars off their perch.

Here is all you need to know about the squad announcement...

When is the squad announcement?

Gareth Southgate is due to name his squad for the upcoming international friendlies today (Thursday 17 March) at 2pm.

The announcement will be followed by a press conference where the Three Lions boss will explain his decisions.

Who could be called up?

Ben Chilwell’s long-term injury means an uncapped left-back replace him.

There a number of potential replacements for the Chelsea defender, with Matt Targett and Aaron Cresswell both in great form for Newcastle and West Ham respectfully, while Kyle Walker-Peters has played much of this season on the left.

Emile Smith Rowe and Conor Gallagher are also in with a great chance of being called up after both enjoying stellar seasons so far, while there will be plenty of complaints if Jarrod Bowen isn’t in the squad.

We could be set for some controversy if Harry Maguire is included given his terrible form for Manchester United, however Southgate may include him due to his previous importance for the national team.

Ideally, the likes of Ben White, Fikayo Tomori or Max Kilman would take the Red Devils’ captain’s place, while Conor Coady is certainly deserving of a spot in the squad.