David James has revealed that he expects Thomas Tuchel to start Marcus Rashford against Panama, insisting the England boss has 'bigger plans' for the forward after an injury-disrupted start to the World Cup. In his exclusive column for Metro, the former England goalkeeper analysed the goalless draw with Ghana and predicted changes for the final group game.
Rashford's role and injury concerns
James said he was surprised Rashford did not start against Ghana, but suggested an injury concern may have been managed. 'I hope he gets to full fitness very quickly and I'm sure he will have opportunities,' James wrote. 'I thought when he came on he offered something a bit different, he offered more energy.'
The former shot-stopper argued that if there was a serious injury risk, Rashford would not have been used at all. 'That would be foolish from the staff and the player to put an injured or potentially injured player out there who could worsen that injury, so it is encouraging he's getting on the pitch, that suggests Thomas has bigger plans for him.'
Breaking down the low block
James dismissed concerns about England's inability to break down Ghana's defensive low block, calling it a learning opportunity for Tuchel. 'Defending against the low block was something Thomas Tuchel spoke about after the game and we could face this again in the competition,' he noted.
He pointed out that Noni Madueke's early crosses were not being met by teammates, raising tactical questions. 'It makes you ask was he doing the right thing and it was his teammates not getting on the end of them or was he doing the wrong thing because that wasn't part of the plan.'
Optimism despite the draw
James emphasised that England remain in control of Group H with four points. 'I'm not worried about the result. I'm not overly worried about the performance because England didn't have to commit silly bodies forward either to win a game they didn't need to win,' he said.
He suggested that had England won, Tuchel might not have identified the issues needed to solve. 'The fact it was sticky against Ghana means there is a need to resolve whatever the issues are.'
Potential changes against Panama
Looking ahead to the Panama match, James predicted possible rotations based on fitness rather than squad management. 'We might end up with more changes against Panama based on player fitness rather than player rotation. Decisions based on legitimate injury risks and concerned rather than just giving some players time off.'
He tipped Kobbie Mainoo for a chance and hinted at defensive alterations. 'I wouldn't be surprised if Kobbie gets his chance and I wouldn't be surprised if there is more changes on the defensive side of things.'
