Thomas Tuchel hands Djed Spence a World Cup debut at right-back and recalls Declan Rice as England face DR Congo in Atlanta, with Noni Madueke starting ahead of Bukayo Saka.
Jude Bellingham’s creative link with Harry Kane finally bore fruit against Panama, recording 0.57 expected assists and setting up England’s captain in open play for the first time at this World Cup.
Jordan Pickford insists England will chase victory inside 90 minutes against the Democratic Republic of Congo to avoid a penalty shootout. The goalkeeper, who has starred in previous spot-kick dramas, says Thomas Tuchel’s side want early resolution.
England’s players are using CoreCtrl, a thermoregulation drink developed by double Olympic triathlon champion Alistair Brownlee, as part of Thomas Tuchel’s preparations for the World Cup knockout stages.
Harry Kane became England’s leading World Cup scorer in a 2-0 victory over Panama, though defensive vulnerabilities and mounting injury concerns cast a shadow over the last-32 qualification.
England have qualified for the last 32 of the World Cup following Uruguay’s defeat to Spain, though defender Reece James will miss the next two matches through injury.
The Chelsea defender reported tightness following the goalless draw against Ghana and will miss Saturday’s clash with Panama and the subsequent last-32 tie.
Ivan Toney has revealed how he repaired his relationship with Thomas Tuchel to secure a place in England’s World Cup squad, with the striker ready to act as a finisher and penalty specialist.
Players, managers and supporters have united in criticism of FIFA’s mandatory hydration breaks, accusing the governing body of fundamentally altering football’s structure to prioritise advertising revenue over the sport’s traditional rhythm.