Alan Shearer has advised Thomas Tuchel to avoid starting Noni Madueke for England's opening World Cup match against Croatia, even if Bukayo Saka is sidelined through injury.
Selection Dilemmas for Tuchel
The Three Lions are preparing for their tournament opener next Wednesday, with several selection headaches for the England manager. While most of the starting XI appears settled, questions remain over whether Ezri Konsa or John Stones will partner in defence, and who will occupy the No.10 role between Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers.
Another concern is Saka's fitness. The Arsenal winger was expected to start on the right flank, but an Achilles problem means he is unlikely to manage a full 90 minutes. Suggestions have emerged that he should be benched, potentially opening the door for Arsenal teammate Madueke, the only other natural right-winger in the squad.
Shearer's Alternative Options
However, Shearer is not convinced by Madueke, who managed just four goal contributions in the Premier League last season and notably missed an open goal in England's final warm-up game against Costa Rica. Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, the former England captain said: 'He has the option to play Anthony Gordon or Marcus Rashford on the right-hand side and the other on the left, either side of Harry Kane. That would give pace, pressing, and the ability to counterattack, rather than Madueke. That's an option I would consider if Saka isn't fit to start.'
Gordon and Rashford are currently competing for the left-wing berth, with Gordon the favourite after an impressive display against Costa Rica. Both can play across the forward line, though whether Tuchel will deploy them on the right remains uncertain.
Cole Palmer Omission Under Scrutiny
Saka's fitness issues have intensified scrutiny on Tuchel's decision to leave Cole Palmer out of the World Cup squad. The Chelsea star endured an injury-plagued season but still scored 10 goals in 26 league appearances. Former England midfielder Frank Lampard commented: 'I don't know where Tuchel sees him, because he's played more as a No.10 for Chelsea. Whether he thinks on the right he wants that dynamic ability to beat players... Cole Palmer can do that, but it's a different style. I'm a big fan. With the conditions, the game might slow down, and he's a player who can open things up. Nothing fazes him.'
