With the World Cup approaching, England manager Thomas Tuchel faces a tough decision at left-back, where three players are vying for the starting spot: Luke Shaw, Nico O’Reilly, and Lewis Hall. Each brings distinct qualities, but none has yet secured the position.
Nico O’Reilly, 21, has been a revelation for Manchester City this season. Originally a midfielder, he has adapted seamlessly to left-back, starting 23 league games and scoring four goals—the most of any Premier League full-back. His height (6ft 4in), tackling ability, and composure under pressure have made him indispensable for Pep Guardiola, who recently moved him into a box-to-box midfield role. O’Reilly has also shone on big stages, scoring against Arsenal in the League Cup final and against Real Madrid at the Bernabéu. He has two England caps and seems likely to make the squad.
Luke Shaw, 30, offers experience but has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. He has started every Premier League game this season for Manchester United, providing consistency, but has not played under Tuchel and was omitted from the recent squad for friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. Shaw scored in the Euro 2020 final and started the Euro 2024 final, but his international future remains uncertain.
Lewis Hall, 21, was given his professional debut by Tuchel at Chelsea in 2022. Now at Newcastle, he has been one of their best players, excelling in a four-man defence that suits Tuchel’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. Hall ranks second among Premier League left-backs for successful dribbles per 90 minutes and has contributed to Newcastle’s attack with his runs down the left. This is his first call-up since 2024, with injuries having delayed his opportunity to audition for the role.
Tuchel has prioritised youth and tactical balance over reputation, as seen with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s omission at right-back. The upcoming friendlies will be crucial for Hall and O’Reilly to stake their claim, while Shaw must convince the manager he can still deliver on the international stage.
