Jamie Carragher has criticised Thomas Tuchel for leaving England short at right-back ahead of their World Cup last-16 clash with Mexico.
England reached the knockout stage after Harry Kane’s late double secured a 2-1 win over DR Congo, but their defensive problems were again exposed. Djed Spence struggled after being moved across from the left, with DR Congo exploiting England’s right side for their early opening goal.
Carragher believes the problem goes back to Tuchel’s decision to replace the injured Tino Livramento with centre-back Trevoh Chalobah rather than another recognised right-back.
Carragher questions Chalobah World Cup call-up
England began the tournament with Reece James and Livramento as their main right-back options, but both have since suffered injuries. Livramento withdrew before the tournament began with a calf problem, giving Tuchel the opportunity to call up a replacement.
He chose Chalobah.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Carragher described that decision as “bizarre” and argued England had created an avoidable problem.
“I think to bring Chalobah in when there were injuries in that position was a bizarre decision. He’s not a right-back, so you’re going to leave yourself short.” — Jamie Carragher
The issue has become more urgent since James suffered a hamstring injury following the goalless draw with Ghana. Spence, initially selected as cover on the left, was then asked to play on the opposite side against DR Congo.
Carragher rejects Declan Rice solution
Declan Rice finished the DR Congo match at right-back, leading to suggestions he could start there against Mexico. Carragher strongly disagrees.
He believes moving Rice out of midfield would create an even bigger problem, particularly after Elliot Anderson struggled to control opposition counter-attacks when used without the Arsenal midfielder.
Carragher also defended Spence from some of the criticism following England’s last match. While accepting that the defender did not play well, he argued the wider team made it too easy for DR Congo to attack the back four.
His assessment of England’s overall prospects was equally concerning. Carragher described their chances of winning the World Cup as “slim”, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham the only players he believes have emerged from the tournament with major credit so far.
Key Points
- Jamie Carragher has criticised Thomas Tuchel’s decision to call up Trevoh Chalobah.
- England have lost both Reece James and Tino Livramento to injury.
- Djed Spence struggled at right-back against DR Congo.
- Carragher does not want Declan Rice moved out of midfield.
- England face Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in the last 16.
What’s Next?
Tuchel must settle on a right-back solution before England face co-hosts Mexico on Monday. Spence could retain his place, while Chalobah offers another defensive option despite not being a natural full-back.
With England already looking vulnerable in transition, the decision could be crucial to their hopes of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals.
Should Thomas Tuchel stick with Djed Spence against Mexico, or find another solution at right-back?
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