Micah Richards has urged Thomas Tuchel to drop Arsenal winger Noni Madueke from England's World Cup team after a series of underwhelming displays. England secured a 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the round of 32, but the performance was far from convincing, with Madueke and Marcus Rashford particularly ineffective in wide areas.
England's unconvincing win over DR Congo
Brian Cipenga scored a seventh-minute opener for DR Congo, giving the underdogs a shock lead. Harry Kane rescued England with a brace late in the game, but the team looked disjointed and lacking creativity for long periods. Madueke, who started the tournament brightly against Croatia, has failed to replicate that form in subsequent matches against Ghana and DR Congo.
Richards calls for Saka to start
Bukayo Saka, England's usual first-choice right winger, has had his minutes managed due to a lingering Achilles injury. However, Saka started in the final group game against Panama, and Richards insists he must return to the lineup against Mexico. “If Saka is fit, Saka has to start – it’s as simple as that. Even if he’s 80 per cent fit, he has to start,” Richards told the BBC. He also suggested that Anthony Gordon impressed on the left flank after replacing Rashford, implying further changes are needed.
Rooney highlights midfield issues
Wayne Rooney has also weighed in, urging Tuchel to address the midfield balance. “For me, it’s putting two pivots in the middle of the pitch. We’re getting to that stage of the competition where we’ve seen we’ve been wide open and there are big spaces in the middle of the pitch,” Rooney said. He stressed that whichever two players are chosen, they must provide stability.
Altitude challenge against Mexico
England face co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in the round of 16, a match made more difficult by the altitude in Mexico City. Rooney noted the physical toll, recalling his own experience playing Brazil in Manaus. “This is such a difficult game… It takes your breath away. If England are going to win this World Cup, this could be their toughest game,” he said. Harry Kane acknowledged the disadvantage, stating, “My understanding is we cannot adapt to the altitude. It’s a huge advantage Mexico have. There’s not enough time.” Tuchel echoed those sentiments, saying, “The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it. It’s physically just not possible to adapt to the altitude.”
