Graeme Souness has launched a scathing attack on England midfielders Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, questioning their £100m valuations and suitability as midfielders after the Three Lions' World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. The Liverpool legend, speaking on the World Cup Uncensored podcast, did not hold back in his assessment of the pair, who were part of Thomas Tuchel's side that lost in heartbreaking fashion in Atlanta.
Souness Questions Rice and Anderson's Quality
The 73-year-old, who won five First Division titles and three European Cups with Liverpool, accused the duo of losing their way after England took the lead against Argentina. He highlighted that they had only 12 per cent possession between scoring and the equalizer. "These are two young [players], well one is very young [Anderson], 22, he's got a chance of getting better. Declan won't get any better. You're looking at as good as he'll get at 27," Souness said.
Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham United in July 2023 for a £100m transfer fee plus £5m in add-ons, while Anderson moved from Newcastle United to Nottingham Forest in a £35m deal in July 2024 and has since agreed to join Manchester City for a British record £116m plus add-ons. Despite their hefty price tags, Souness remains unimpressed.
Comparison to Rodri
Souness contrasted the England pair with Spain's Rodri, who he described as "the polar opposite." He praised Rodri's ability to keep his team on the front foot with intelligent passing, unlike Rice and Anderson. "I don't see enough football in the two of them. I see them as players who recycle the ball, but I don't see them hurting people," Souness added.
He went further, suggesting Rice might be better suited as a centre-half. "Declan Rice, for me, limited. You heard people talking about Declan Rice - a world class footballer - I think he might be a centre-half," Souness said. He acknowledged Rice's attitude, athleticism, and commitment but criticized his lack of creativity and vision.
Souness's Midfield Philosophy
Souness elaborated on his view of central midfield play, arguing that players should not carry the ball excessively. "The reason people run with the ball is because they don't see the picture quick enough," he said. "I've got Declan Rice running with the ball, runs 20 yards, is confronted by an opposition player, the handbrake goes on and he passes it square."
Souness, who joined Liverpool from Middlesbrough for £30,000 in 1972, captained the Reds to domestic and European glory before managing them in 1991. His comments come after England's 2-1 semi-final loss to Argentina, where Rice and Anderson struggled to impose themselves.
