England are nearing the end of their World Cup campaign. The Three Lions were on the back foot for much of the match against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but Harry Kane’s quick attack put them back in the game.
Kane scored twice within the first 11 minutes to keep England’s World Cup hopes alive and set up a last-16 showdown with co-hosts Mexico in the process. Mexico have dominated at the Azteca Stadium and this will be Thomas Tuchel’s toughest test yet.
The two sides will face each other in the early hours of Monday morning British time, but before that, Tuchel has some big decisions to make regarding England’s starting XI. Right-back has emerged as an issue for England, given Reece James’ continued lack of fitness and substitute Jarrell Quansah’s injury against Panama.
Jed Spence was used as a right-back against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but the Spurs man missed the full 90 games and faced much criticism for his role in the opening goal. Declan Rice has been moved to right-back, with some suggesting he could start the game in that position. What do you think about the debate surrounding whether Spence should start against Mexico?
Let us know your opinion on whether Jed Spence should start at right-back for England in the Round of 32 match against Mexico below…
The Chelsea star has given an update on his future following England’s progress, and there is hope that James could return for the game against Mexico. It was short and sweet, and James said, “It’s okay. I feel fine.”
Tuchel insisted ahead of the match against the Democratic Republic of Congo that James’ return would not be far off. “They (James and Quansah) are getting closer and closer. I saw them both on the field. Jarrell is a little bit ahead of Reese because of the nature of the injury. Jarrell is a little bit ahead of Reese.”
“But we were very close to making the team this time. So we need to get more games (in the tournament) and then we’ll be available soon. We’ll find a solution. This is a team sport. We’d love to have Reese and Jarrell with us, but they’re injured at the moment. Other guys are stepping up and we’re going to push this over the line.”
