Paul Merson has voiced concern as Declan Rice is being tipped to play at right back for England against Mexico in the World Cup round of 16.
England secured a win over the DR Congo in the round of 32, although the match was not straightforward, with the right back position exposed on several occasions during the first half of the contest.
Djed Spence initially started in that role, but as a natural left back, he struggled to cope with the pace and direct running of the opposition attackers, which led to defensive instability before adjustments were made.
Rice’s Temporary Defensive Role
Rice was moved into the right-back position during the second half and brought greater control and stability to England’s defensive structure. His positioning and composure helped reduce pressure on that flank and provided a more secure platform for the team.
This brief spell has led to suggestions that he could be deployed there again against Mexico, particularly given ongoing uncertainty over England’s defensive options for the fixture.
Reece James and Jarrel Quansah remain doubts for selection, and if neither is available, Thomas Tuchel may again consider Rice in that role, although it is not regarded as an ideal long-term solution.
Merson Raises Tactical Concerns
According to the Metro, Merson said:
‘You know what, for the 15 minutes or so that he had at right-back he was outstanding.
‘You had that little triangle with him, Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka down the right-hand side a couple of times.
‘My problem is that when you’ve got a game like Mexico where they’re isolated and it will be one-vs-ones… he’ll do a job, of course he will, he’s Declan Rice, a brilliant professional and a brilliant player but I don’t know.’
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
ADMIN COMMENT
So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….
You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.
CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…
Surely of the huge number of Premiership players that are English Thomas Tuchel could have found a suitable back up for Reece James in the event he suffered injury.
Nope – he decided waste a squad place on Jordan Henderson. Dan Burn. John Stones.
More physical stress on Declan…
I think Rice is the only credible pick for right back in this game as he can leave defence as a back three when we are going forward. He can also move into midfield in similar circumstances. The big problem for me is that he doesn’t stop running, tackling back and bombing forward, so he will likely suffer major burn out and will be out for the start of our season.
yeah mate but for what he gives at RB your lost so much in midfield in a game where his energy is a important
I put Konsa RB
If he plays like that at this altitude Rice will be completely exhausted (or worse) within 30 minutes
Spence is a defender, who is a RB, is in the squad, is faster than Rice, IS right footed and has more experience at RB, is not deemed capable and Rice is? I do not get it at all. Ludicrous!!!!!!
But will he perform better than Rice at RB in this game?
Who knows but thats his position?
It isn’t Rices, who is our best midfielder.
Spence usually plays on the left for his club, and doesn’t look too good on his “natural” side, so he shouldn’t be risked against a team with good wide players. Central defender Chalobah has played at right back for Chelsea, but would you risk him in this game or any others to come? It looks as though a still not completely fit Saka is going to be a bit overworked in this one.
He played ok for Forest on the right?
In this game I’ll be surprised if most of the team isn’t done by the 70th minute at Azteca. The circumstances will be more difficult to deal with than Mexico would otherwise be.