Former England World Cup star David James has suggested that Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice could be the solution to Thomas Tuchel's right-back problem following Reece James's injury. In his exclusive column for Metro, James analyzed England's last-32 World Cup clash with DR Congo and the team's evolving dynamics.
Bellingham's freshness key
Jude Bellingham was the standout player for England against Panama, according to James. The former goalkeeper noted that Bellingham's lack of involvement in the latter stages of the Champions League with Real Madrid may have worked in England's favor. “Having him not play in the latter stages of the Champions League with Real Madrid, I think we are benefitting from a player who did not have to be as hugely competitive late on in the season. He looks fresher than he has done in any other tournament,” James wrote. Bellingham scored an instinctive and cute finish, showcasing his hunger and creativity.
Winger struggles against Panama
James expressed mixed feelings about England's wingers in the Panama match. While Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford were eager to take on defenders, their constant one-on-one attacks were neutralized by Panama's setup. “In the first-half, I thought the wingers attacking constantly in one vs one situations was detrimental to England,” James said. He noted that England's goals came from a corner and a cross from Bellingham, not from direct runs. However, he found it reassuring that the wingers were confident enough to try, and the team appears to be learning with each game.
Elliot Anderson's learning curve
James also commented on Elliot Anderson, who picked up the ball and ran with it frequently, when quicker passing might have been more effective. “But they seemed to learn more and more as the games go,” he added.
Declan Rice at right-back?
With Reece James ruled out, James proposed a surprising solution: Declan Rice at right-back. Rice has played there for Arsenal a few times last season. “For me, it’s shades of Dominik Szoboszlai at right-back for Liverpool,” James wrote. He argued that England's squad depth could accommodate such a move, keeping Elliot Anderson and Jude Bellingham in midfield. “If your squad is strong enough like ours is, you could facilitate that. You’re taking care of a position in need but you still have the quality in your natural positions,” he said. James expressed confidence that Tuchel can set up the XI effectively.
Facing DR Congo
Looking ahead to the match against DR Congo, James acknowledged the opposition's Premier League experience but highlighted England's superior pace. “There will be large periods of the game where England are in possession and Congo are in their defensive unit but little things like that threat of pace that England have over them will scare them,” he said. He predicted that Ivan Toney might see his first action of the tournament if the game follows the pattern of previous matches. James is confident England will progress but warned against expecting a walkover. “The idea it will be a walkover is far too optimistic,” he concluded.
