Graeme Souness questions Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson after England World Cup exit

Liverpool legend Graeme Souness has delivered a scathing assessment of England midfielders Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson following the Three Lions' World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina.

Thomas Tuchel's side saw their dream of reaching a first World Cup final since 1966 come to an end in Atlanta, and Souness believes England's midfield failed to control the game after taking the lead.

Speaking on the World Cup Uncensored podcast, Souness questioned whether either Rice or Anderson possess the qualities needed to dominate matches from central midfield.

The former Liverpool captain argued both players are too focused on recycling possession rather than playing progressive passes capable of hurting opponents.

"I don't see enough football in the two of them," Souness said.

"I see them as players who recycle the ball, but I don't see them hurting people."

He contrasted England's midfield with Spain star Rodri, describing the Manchester City midfielder as the benchmark for the position because of his ability to dictate matches through intelligent passing and positioning.

Souness reserved particularly strong criticism for Rice, suggesting the Arsenal midfielder may actually be better suited to playing in central defence.

The former Scotland international praised Rice's attitude, athleticism and commitment but questioned his decision-making in possession.

"I think he might be a centre-half," Souness said.

"My criticism of him is, he doesn't have enough football in him."

He also criticised Rice's tendency to carry the ball over long distances, arguing elite central midfielders should move possession quickly rather than relying on dribbling before playing sideways passes.

Anderson, who recently completed a £116 million move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City, was also included in Souness' criticism.

Although the 22-year-old was given greater room for improvement because of his age, the former Liverpool midfielder suggested the England international currently lacks the creativity required to influence games at the highest level.

The comments are likely to spark debate given Anderson's rapid rise over the past two seasons and Rice's status as one of the Premier League's most highly-rated midfielders.

Despite England's disappointing exit, both players are expected to remain key figures under Tuchel as attention turns towards the next international cycle.

England will now look to regroup following their semi-final disappointment, with Tuchel expected to continue building his squad around a core that includes Rice and Anderson. Souness' comments are unlikely to alter their standing within the national team, but they will add to the debate over England's midfield balance ahead of future tournaments.

Do you agree with Graeme Souness' assessment of Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, or has he been too harsh?