Thomas Tuchel is set to make major changes for England’s World Cup third-place playoff against France, with two of his biggest stars expected to start on the bench.
According to the latest reports, Harry Kane and Declan Rice have both been left out of the predicted starting XI as Tuchel looks to rotate his squad following the heartbreaking semi-final defeat to Argentina.
Tuchel Rings the Changes
England’s World Cup dream came to an end after a dramatic 2-1 loss to Argentina, and Tuchel now appears ready to give several squad players an opportunity in the bronze-medal match.
Harry Kane, England’s captain and leading scorer throughout the tournament, is expected to be rested. With the Golden Boot now likely out of reach and the fixture carrying less significance than the semi-final, Tuchel is reportedly keen to manage his skipper’s workload.
Declan Rice is also expected to miss out after dealing with illness and fitness concerns during the latter stages of the tournament. The Arsenal midfielder has played a crucial role throughout England’s campaign, but Tuchel may choose not to risk him.
Predicted England Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
Position
Player
GK
Jordan Pickford
RB
Djed Spence
CB
Ezri Konsa
CB
Marc Guehi
LB
Nico O’Reilly
CM
Jude Bellingham
CM
Elliot Anderson
RW
Noni Madueke
CAM
Morgan Rogers
LW
Anthony Gordon
ST
Ollie Watkins
Golden Boot Blow
If Kane starts on the bench, his hopes of finishing as the tournament’s top scorer could effectively be over.
The England captain has enjoyed another impressive World Cup, but missing significant minutes against France would leave him with little opportunity to catch the tournament’s leading scorers.
Glen Johnson Backs Rice Decision
Former England defender Glen Johnson believes resting Declan Rice would be the right call.
“I can’t see Rice playing at all. He has been carrying an injury, has been unwell during the tournament and had a very long season with Arsenal.”
Given Rice’s importance to both club and country, protecting him ahead of next season could prove to be a sensible decision.
Fans Split Over Tuchel’s Selection
England supporters have reacted with mixed emotions.
Some believe Tuchel is making the correct decision by giving fringe players valuable minutes after a demanding tournament.
Others argue that England should field its strongest possible side to finish the World Cup on a positive note by securing third place.
What’s at Stake?
Although the World Cup trophy is no longer within reach, England still have the chance to finish third and end another impressive tournament with a victory.
For several squad players, the France match also represents an opportunity to impress Tuchel ahead of future international competitions.
The Bottom Line
Thomas Tuchel looks set to rotate his squad against France, with Harry Kane and Declan Rice expected to begin on the bench.
If the predicted lineup proves accurate, England fans will get a glimpse of the next generation as the Three Lions aim to finish their World Cup campaign with a win.
