Post Christmas and into the last few months of the season is huge in a World Cup year. It's the period where decisions are made, and there are plenty for Gareth Southgate to be making.
There were some big switches for England squad hopefuls during the January transfer window, and a number more will have to find some excellent form to get the nod.
We take a look who are going to need a fine flurry of form to make the 23-man squad.
Theo Walcott
Walcott has been away from international football for some time now, having failed to make an appearance for the Three Lions in 2017. He hasn't scored for his country since 2015 either, so that move to Everton was vital if he's going to grab Southgate's attention.
The player has had a good start to his career with the Toffees, netting twice in four appearances, also picking up an assist. If that continues he will be one of the hot World Cup betting tips to make the squad, pushing the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard for a start.
Harry Maguire
A lot is being said about Leicester's 24-year-old centre-back Harry Maguire.
Both Manchester City and Manchester United are preparing to make a move for him, but all Maguire needs to do is concentrate on making that squad.
That means keeping his head down and keeping those performances consistent. John Stones seems a shoo-in as one of England's back two with Gary Cahill his likely partner. However, Maguire can contend for a place if he continues to be a strong alternative.
Marcus Rashford
It could be time to start worrying for Marcus Rashford as he finds himself firmly planted on the Manchester United bench.
Reports are suggesting that Southgate is becoming frustrated by his lack of action and while it seems obvious that the 20-year-old will made the squad, 52 minutes out of a possible 650 in the 2018 proves he is far from a certain starter.
Jack Wilshere
It seems a very long time since England were as poor as they are in the centre of midfield. A few months ago Jack Wilshere was completely out of the picture but now finds himself at 4/6 to make the squad.
A lot of fans will fancy him in the team ahead of the likes of Jordan Henderson and Eric Dier, and if he continues to cement his place back in the Arsenal team, then wishes may come true.
It is going to be a big few months for Wilshere, but England managers tend to like him and that could be the thing that sees him on the plane.
Jermain Defoe
It appears Gareth Southgate has handed Bournemouth striker Jermain Defoe a challenge to break into his squad.
The 35-year-old has duly accepted and has come back strongly from a broken ankle in order to enjoy one last major tournament.
Defoe has not played for the Three Lions since June and will take some time to get match sharp for his club. How he does for Eddie Howe's men from now until May could see him there, particularly as England are currently really lacking experience.
