Gary Neville has raised concerns over England’s right-back situation ahead of their World Cup knockout match against Mexico. He believes that Thomas Tuchel’s failure to address this issue could significantly impact the team’s performance. With Reece James sidelined due to injury, Tuchel has been forced to rely on Declan Rice, who is not naturally a defender, raising questions about the team’s defensive cohesion.
Neville previously criticized Mikel Arteta for playing Rice at right-back for Arsenal, suggesting it was a poor decision. Now, he finds himself advocating for a similar move for England, highlighting the urgency of solidifying the backline. He notes that while the individual defenders are capable, they lack the necessary unity, which could lead to vulnerabilities during crucial matches.
The situation is compounded by Rice’s ongoing hamstring issues, which may limit his effectiveness in a position that requires both defensive and offensive capabilities. Neville’s insights suggest that without a strategic solution, England’s chances in the tournament could be jeopardized.
As the team prepares for the last-16 clash, the pressure mounts on Tuchel to make the right choices. The outcome of this match could hinge on how well he navigates these selection challenges, potentially affecting England’s World Cup aspirations.
Source: Metro
