Eberechi Eze made his World Cup debut earlier this week and is happy to take on whatever role England want him to play as selection competition heats up in the final third.
Eberechi Eze is ready to play any role England need
Eberechi Eze said he feels “blessed” to be making his World Cup debut. And now he really wants to make his mark in the tournament.
Arsenal midfielder Eze came on as a substitute against Ghana and took a bow after receiving a gee-up message from Thomas Tuchel on the touchline. Although Eze came on as a substitute, he was unable to contribute to England’s victory and is hoping to get more chances to show what he is capable of in this tournament.
When asked about Tuchel’s comments before the start of the game, Eze said: “Go out, have fun, try to win the game and really focus on what you’re trying to do. It’s a blessing for me and I don’t take it for granted. It’s difficult trying to find space within the system. I think being effective is something that each game is different and interesting and gives priority to.”
“It’s a great experience, it’s great to have a chance to play and win this competition and it’s great to be a part of it. I don’t care what position or role I play. As long as I’m doing it, whether I start or come off the bench, it’s up to me and I’m just going to enjoy it as much as I can.”
“It’s good and I’m happy just to be there. Every game is different and difficult in its own way. You want to go out there and influence the game. The game was difficult and we were very solid, but that’s my responsibility to change the game.”
Eze said he does not feel tired or fatigued after such a tough season as he is highly motivated and Arsenal’s title has given him new confidence.
He added: “Personally, I don’t need more motivation than the tournament. I’m motivated and I love playing football, so I’m ready. When you have players who have won, it gives you even more confidence. It’s the same for me. I try not to get too interested in what people think. We stay inside and focus on what we need to do to win. That’s what I’m trying to do.”
Eze was also asked about Spain and which team left an impression on him, and he mentioned a surprising team. He added: “I think there are a lot of good teams and a lot of games. It was fun to watch the Ivory Coast game. They are very strong and positive, they manage the ball very well, they have really strong and effective players, but I am very focused.”
Marcus Rashford is one of the attacking stars Thomas Tuchel could sign (Image: Getty Images)
Marcus Rashford is aiming to start England’s final group game against Panama. Rashford only came on as a substitute against Ghana and has only played 27 minutes in total for England during the World Cup.
Rashford recovered from a hamstring and muscle strain after playing against Croatia, which quickly caused fitness concerns. However, Rashford is understood to feel fit, wants to play against Panama and feels he is ready to start.
Rashford has just finished a strong season with Barcelona and although he had some fitness issues after the match against Croatia, he does not think that will be an issue against Panama.
Anthony Gordon started England’s first two games on the left wing but did not perform well against Ghana and could be an obvious change for manager Thomas Tuchel to make ahead of the final group game in New Jersey. Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is another player who is pushing for a starting role after coming on as a substitute in the opening two games.
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