5 key topics to discuss prior to England’s Wembley showdown against Ukraine

England is set to host Ukraine at Wembley on Sunday for their second game in the Euro 2024 qualification campaign.

Amid the excitement of the match, the FA has invited over 1,000 Ukrainian refugees and their host families in the UK to attend the match, highlighting the ongoing war in the country.

United with Ukraine

The invitations to the Euro 2024 qualifier at Wembley were made to people involved in the Government’s Homes for Ukraine Scheme, which launched in response to Russia’s invasion of the country.

At present, there are around 117,000 Ukrainian refugees in the UK, with many of them housed with volunteers who opened up their homes to those fleeing the conflict.

A chance for Chilwell?

Ben Chilwell, the Chelsea defender who missed the World Cup due to injury, is in fine form for his club and will be eager to prove himself in his position as a left-back.

With Luke Shaw out of the game due to two yellow cards, Chilwell has a chance to demonstrate his skills and give Gareth Southgate another positive selection option.

One step to Germany

A victory for England against Ukraine, one of the stronger Group C opponents, could set them up for Germany next summer. Winning both in Italy and at Wembley would be a fine start for Southgate and his players, with favorable games against Malta and North Macedonia next up in June. While there are still tough fixtures to come, England would already be thinking of sealing qualification.

Time for Toney?

Ivan Toney could be in line for his England debut should Harry Kane be rested. The Brentford forward has yet to make his debut despite being called up twice, but he has hit 28 Premier League goals in a year-and-a-half, keeping him on the international scene despite ongoing Football Association charges relating to gambling.

54 not out

Kane surpassed Wayne Rooney to become the all-time leading goalscorer for England with 54 senior England goals. The Tottenham striker will be acknowledged ahead of kick-off against Ukraine as he looks to build on his record-breaking total.