Alan Shearer urges Thomas Tuchel to start Saka and Rashford
Former England captain Alan Shearer has urged manager Thomas Tuchel to make sweeping changes, including starting Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford, for Saturday’s crucial World Cup group match against Panama.
The Three Lions were held to a frustrating draw by Ghana on Tuesday, raising concerns over their attacking output in the tournament.
However, the celebrated Newcastle United legend believes there is no reason for panic as history shows eventual champions frequently drop points in early group stages.
Attacking overhaul needed out wide
Shearer was highly critical of the starting wingers during the sluggish performance against the African nation.
He felt Anthony Gordon and Noni Madueke lacked the necessary aggression and consistently struggled to beat their respective defenders.
I didn’t think Anthony Gordon or Noni Madueke were positive enough against Ghana.
The former striker noted that both open-play service and set-piece deliveries were remarkably poor throughout the contest.
Consequently, the BBC pundit expects the German tactician to introduce the Arsenal talisman and the Manchester United forward on the flanks.
Providing the explosive right-winger is fully fit, his inclusion alongside the experienced Mancunian would drastically alter the team’s attacking dynamic.
Defensive uncertainties and structural tweaks
Further changes are anticipated in the backline, with Nico O’Reilly heavily tipped to replace Djed Spence at left-back.
The impressive youngster generated significantly more attacking threat during a brief 15-minute cameo than the side had managed prior to his introduction.
A central defensive switch could also materialise, potentially seeing Manchester City stalwart John Stones return at the expense of Ezri Konsa.
Shearer also highlighted uncharacteristic vulnerability from goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, suggesting the frequent defensive rotations may have unsettled the Everton shot-stopper.
Despite largely dominating possession, the European heavyweights survived two major counter-attacking scares that could easily have resulted in a penalty or a red card.
Capitalising on a struggling opponent
Their upcoming Central American opponents are already eliminated from the competition following consecutive defeats.
A victory on Saturday would ensure progression and likely secure top spot in the group, settling any lingering nerves within the camp.
