Patrick Vieira has downplayed the significance of England's deflating draw with Ghana but expects Thomas Tuchel to take a 'different approach' against similar opponents at the World Cup. The former Arsenal captain also urged Tuchel to drop Noni Madueke in favor of Bukayo Saka.
England's goalless draw with Ghana
England failed to kick on from an impressive opening 4-2 win over Croatia in their second group game against Ghana, failing to break down a spirited Carlos Queiroz side in a goalless draw. The stalemate was described as a 'reality check' by many pundits after excitement grew following Tuchel's team proving too strong for 2018 runners-up and 2022 semi-finalists Croatia.
But French World Cup winner Vieira dismissed suggestions that the Ghana draw was a significant 'step back' for England, who he still believes will make at least the semi-finals. 'Look, England didn't lose the game,' Vieira said on The Rest is Football. 'After the first win we expected a bit more energy but you have to give credit to Ghana. They were well-organised, really difficult to play against and threatening on the counter-attack. There was a feeling after the game that this was a step back for England – but it's not.'
Vieira expects tactical adjustments
Vieira expects Tuchel to learn from the underwhelming draw in Foxborough and take a 'different approach' if the Three Lions are drawn against similar opponents at the World Cup. 'I still believe England will be in the semi-finals at least and maybe the final because this is a really good side,' Vieira added. 'They didn't find the keys against Ghana but they will learn from it and the manager will come with solutions if they play another team like Ghana.'
Vieira also expects to see more of Bukayo Saka as the tournament progresses at the expense of Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke. Madueke largely impressed in England's World Cup opener but was less influential against Ghana, with Saka making more of an impact after again coming on as a substitute. 'If England play teams like this again there will be a different approach and maybe different players on the field,' Vieira said. 'When Bukayo Saka was on the field at the end he brought something different to Noni Madueke. But I'm not worried about England's performance.'
Micah Richards calls for wholesale changes
Ex-England defender Micah Richards believes Tuchel could make a number of changes for the final group game against Panama. 'I would make changes, certainly,' Richards said. 'I would definitely start Marcus Rashford now and if Bukayo Saka is fit I would bring him in. I would actually give Ollie Watkins a run-out as well. As we go deeper into the tournament you want a few different strikers firing, it wouldn't be the worst thing for Harry Kane to get a little rest as well. I would go with Morgan Rogers as well, I would give Jude Bellingham a rest. I would make wholesale changes for that final group game.'
