England were held to a 0-0 draw by Ghana on Tuesday night, but Thomas Tuchel should respond with five changes for the final Group L match against Panama on Saturday. Despite 19 shots and four on target, England lacked creativity through the middle and looked shaky at the back. However, the performance was far from the drab displays under Gareth Southgate, with a clear pressing plan and structure in possession.
John Stones in for Marc Guehi
John Stones, who made only nine Premier League appearances for Manchester City this season due to thigh and calf problems, was rested against Ghana. The veteran centre-back should return to build rhythm and fitness for the knockout stages. Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi struggled with long balls, highlighting Stones' importance to the defence.
Nico O'Reilly in for Reece James
Reece James is fit for a major tournament, and England should protect him by resting the Chelsea captain. Djed Spence, who looked less impressive at left-back, should move to the right flank, allowing Nico O'Reilly to start. The City left-back offers assurance in possession and an aerial threat, as shown by his late effort that hit the bar.
Morgan Rogers in for Declan Rice
Declan Rice was already nursing a back injury and was seen with heavy strapping on his left calf after the Ghana match. Tuchel must rest his star midfielder. Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa is the ideal replacement, providing surging runs and goal threat against a weaker Panama side.
Bukayo Saka in for Noni Madueke
Bukayo Saka was fit to start against Ghana but only played 30 minutes. Noni Madueke was not poor, but Saka's impact was clear. Tuchel said pre-match: "He is getting better and better, feels no more pain and he is ready to go." Saka should start to regain match sharpness, potentially playing only 45 minutes.
Marcus Rashford in for Anthony Gordon
Anthony Gordon was subbed off in the 64th minute after a disappointing display. Marcus Rashford, his replacement at Barcelona, should be handed his first start. Rashford's pace and directness alongside Harry Kane and Rogers could be a winning formula.
Predicted England lineup against Panama
Jordan Pickford; Djed Spence, John Stones, Ezri Konsa, Nico O'Reilly; Elliot Anderson; Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers; Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford.
