For the first time in a generation, the British Isles are set to host a major men's tournament – but how will England shape up in five years' time?

After a 32-year absence, men's football will come home in 2028 (or, more specifically, to England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales). The British Isles have been confirmed as hosts of the European Championship in five years' time – meaning it will be the first major men's tournament held in this part of the world since Euro 1996.

Anticipation is already building and the question has, of course, been raised: What will the host nations look like five years down the line?

Barring the emergence of a golden generation for one of their co-hosts, England will have to shoulder the majority of expectation as they look to claim an elusive piece of silverware on home soil. Indeed, they may even be considered favourites.

With that in mind, just how will the Three Lions line up in 2028?

GettyGK: Aaron Ramsdale

With Jordan Pickford likely out of the picture, Ramsdale should finally be able to make the No.1 spot his own.

Although David Raya has put a spanner in the works at Arsenal, if Ramsdale is still playing for a Champions League club in 2028, then he will be the favourite to start, although impressive youngster James Trafford will have something to say on the matter.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesRB: Reece James

After only making one appearance at Euro 2020 and missing out on the 2022 World Cup altogether, James will be absolutely determined to play a role in a major tournament on home soil.

So much will depend on his fitness, though, with his chronic injury problems costing him his place in Qatar last year. Trent Alexander-Arnold will only be 30 in 2028, while there are plenty of other developing right-backs who will push James all the way for a starting spot.

Getty ImagesCB: Ben White

England's forgotten man could well be back in the picture by the time this tournament rolls around. White has excelled as a right-back for Arsenal, but by 2028 he would surely hope to be playing in his preferred centre-back role.

As is the case in a number of areas, England are not blessed with a host of emerging talent in this position, but if White is still operating at the highest level for a top-six club, then his chances of beating Fikayo Tomori and Man City youngster Taylor Harwood-Bellis to a starting berth are strong.

Getty ImagesCB: Levi Colwill

One young centre-back who the Three Lions will have hihh hopes for is Colwill. He will be 25 by the time the tournament begins, meaning he won't even have reached his peak. Quality left-footed central defenders are like gold dust, but it feels as though England have the man custom-built for the role in the future.

Fellow Chelsea academy graduate Marc Guehi will likely be a squad option, but Colwill will expect to start.