Thomas Tuchel has been advised to replicate Mikel Arteta's tactical approach by deploying Declan Rice at right-back for England's World Cup round of 32 clash against DR Congo. The suggestion comes from former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino, who believes Rice's athleticism and versatility make him a viable option to address England's injury crisis in defence.
England's right-back dilemma
England advanced to the knockout stage as Group L winners after a nervy 2-0 victory over Panama in New Jersey. The result set up a meeting with DR Congo, who impressed with a draw against Portugal. However, Tuchel faces a significant injury problem at right-back, with first-choice Reece James expected to miss the match. Jarrell Quansah deputised against Panama but looked uncomfortable out of position and limped off with an ankle injury.
With Quansah now an injury doubt, Djed Spence is the only natural, fit right-back in the squad. However, Cascarino expressed reservations about the Tottenham defender's defensive capabilities, particularly in one-on-one situations against elite wingers like Vinicius Junior.
Cascarino's alternative solution
Speaking on talkSPORT, Cascarino said: 'You might see Thomas Tuchel do something very different. He might even select a midfielder to go and play right-back. It's the position in the England team that's totally up for grabs. Someone's going to play there, and it might not be the obvious.'
He added: 'If I'm brutally honest, I would really think about playing Declan Rice there. I think he could do it. I've always said, Declan Rice can play centre-half, he can play midfield, and you could play him as a full-back. Steven Gerrard, you could play as a right-back, he did it in the Champions League final because he was so good athletically. Now, if I wanted someone to be able to handle someone physically and athletically, I'm looking at Declan Rice.'
Rice's experience at right-back
Rice, who was rested against Panama due to a minor injury, previously filled in at right-back for Arsenal during an injury crisis last season. The move was widely criticised, with Gary Neville calling it a 'really poor decision' from Arteta and insisting Rice was not capable of playing in defence. Despite this, Cascarino believes Rice's athletic profile makes him a better option than Spence.
Other options and timeline
Centre-backs Ezri Konsa and Trevoh Chalobah have also been mentioned as potential replacements for James. Tuchel has only a few days to decide, with England set to face DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1. The decision will be crucial as England aim to progress further in the tournament.
