England may have topped their group and secured passage to the last 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, but according to former international Alan Shearer, manager Thomas Tuchel is still grappling with significant tactical issues and a lack of a settled side.
Despite progressing, the Three Lions have shown vulnerabilities, particularly in wide areas and defense, leading Shearer to suggest Tuchel is “still searching for solutions” three games into the tournament. The constant rotation has been stark, with Tuchel deploying nine different full-back and winger combinations across 270 minutes, involving eight distinct players.
Injuries have undoubtedly played a part in the selection dilemmas, with Reece James and Jarell Quansah sidelined at right-back, and Bukayo Saka not operating at 100% fitness. However, the frequent changes have resulted in England failing to pose a consistent threat down the flanks.
Shearer highlighted issues with England’s crossing strategy. Speaking on Radio 5 Live during the Panama game, he observed wingers like Marcus Rashford and Saka often cutting inside to deliver inswinging balls. This approach, Shearer noted, makes it “easier for defenders to clear.” He suggested England appears more dangerous when wingers stay wide and deliver crosses from deeper positions, citing Jude Bellingham’s assist for Harry Kane’s goal as a prime example of this more effective strategy.
Read also: Referee gets cramp and brings a bizarre pause to USA world cup win
Defensive concerns persist despite group success
The defensive unit has also suffered from the lack of continuity. Constantly changing the back four has undermined England’s stability, leading to shaky performances. The team conceded twice in the first half against Croatia and gave up chances to both Ghana and Panama. While a strong spine of Jordan Pickford, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane has been evident, the surrounding defensive structure remains a concern.
“You don’t have to have all the answers, even at this stage of a tournament – injuries and suspensions mean teams always have to adapt ideas and personnel as they progress – but Tuchel has quite a lot to sort out before we face DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday,” Shearer told BBC Sport.
Tuchel’s selection choices have also raised eyebrows, with some suggesting he has taken a gamble on players with a history of injuries. As England prepares to face DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday, the defensive uncertainty is set to continue, with another different back four likely. Potential right-back options include Spence or Erzi Konsa, while John Stones might partner Marc Guehi at centre-back if Guehi is fit.
DR Congo is expected to adopt a defensive posture, looking to hit England on the break, which could further expose any lingering instability at the back. Shearer emphasized the urgency of finding a settled system as the tournament progresses. “I am confident I will be asking how England get on against Mexico or Ecuador next, but if we are going to go far at this World Cup then we will need to stop shifting players around and find some stability at the back,” he concluded.
Read also: Viral ‘FIFA script’ theory points to Portugal
Read also: Kane curse lifted by spiritualist Nana Kwaku Bonsam
