The 2022/23 EFL Championship season will soon hit the pause button to accommodate the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
While most of the football stars that ply their trade in England and will represent their countries in Qatar are from the Premier League, the second-tier competition will have its share too.
Several of last season’s Championship headline performers, including Serbia’s Aleksandar Mitrovic and Denmark’s Philip Billing, earned top-flight promotion.
However, there’s no shortage of talent in England’s second division as we run through which Championship stars could feature in a first-ever winter World Cup.
And if you’re interested in backing a country of your liking to conquer the tournament, check out the World Cup betting for the best odds. Without further ado, let’s skip to the list.
Canada
Junior Hoilett (Reading)
Canada’s first appearance at the World Cup finals since 1986 will see Reading’s Junior Hoilett leading John Herdman’s attack alongside Lille marksman Jonathan David.
Ghana
Benjamin Tetteh (Hull City)
After going from strength to strength for Turkish outfit Yeni Malatyaspor, Benjamin Tetteh has yet to hit his stride in the Championship with Hull City.
However, he’s been a permanent first-team fixture for Ghana lately.
Baba Rahman (Reading)
One of the worst signings in Chelsea history, Abdul Rahman Baba has been an always-present figure for the Black Stars since making his international debut in 2014.
Now at Reading, the 28-year-old is ready for his second World Cup appearance.
Morocco
Ilias Chair (QPR)
As one of the most highly-rated Championship stars, Ilias Chair should have his place in Morocco’s exciting World Cup squad.
The skilful playmaker could be the linchpin of Walid Regragui’s side following his eye-catching showings for Queens Park Rangers.
Senegal
Ismaila Sarr (Watford)
Watford’s speed demon Ismaila Sarr will fight shoulder to shoulder with Bayern Munich superstar Sadio Mane as part of Senegal’s bid to build on their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations success earlier this year.
United States
Ethan Horvath (Luton Town)
Though he’ll likely play second fiddle to Arsenal’s Matt Turner, Luton Town goalkeeper Ethan Horvath will be an option for the United States head coach Gregg Berhalter.
Josh Sargent (Norwich City)
With Brenden Aaronson and Christian Pulisic expected to spearhead the USA frontline at the tournament, Norwich City’s Josh Sargent may have to vie for his chances from the bench.
Wales
Connor Roberts (Burnley)
Connor Roberts has been one of Wales’ most consistent performers this year, nailing down the right-back position as his own.
Tyler Roberts (QPR)
Tyler Roberts’ Premier League career with Leeds United hasn’t reached the promised heights, but the 23-year-old has regained his confidence at QPR this season.
While he’s unlikely to be a starter in Qatar, he will most certainly be on the plane.
Joe Allen (Swansea City)
Arguably the most famous name on this list, former Liverpool ace Joe Allen has earned 72 caps for Wales’ national team.
Despite missing out on his country’s Nations League fixtures in September due to injury, he should recover in time to play in Qatar.
