Troy Deeney has claimed that England star Nico O'Reilly has been "getting away with murder" and questioned his starting spot ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The Three Lions face Argentina on Wednesday night, seeking a place in their first final since 1966.
O'Reilly's performances under scrutiny
O'Reilly enjoyed a breakout year with Manchester City, cementing himself as a regular at full-back and scoring twice in their Carabao Cup final success. Those exploits earned him England recognition, and he has established himself as Thomas Tuchel's first choice at the World Cup. However, his performances have been called out, with the Three Lions seeing their backline breached in their last three outings.
Deeney cited the heat being put on Noni Madueke, who has been in and out of the team on the wing, but the ex-Watford man questioned why O'Reilly is not facing similar questions. He said on talkSPORT: "By the way, he's (Nico O'Reilly) been getting away with murder. Because he's been playing just as bad as (Noni) Madueke. It's just coming up against Messi, because that's what he's going to come in on the [England] left side. I would probably have to go Djed Spence just to match him. And say to Djed Spence, 'Just follow him. If he goes inside, go inside'."
England's defensive challenges
England's back four has had to undergo constant change during the tournament, largely due to injuries and suspensions. They will face their toughest test when they take on the Argentines, who boast Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez among their attacking weapons. Despite the criticism, O'Reilly is relishing the challenge of facing Messi, whom he has declared the Greatest of All Time.
The City star told BBC Radio 5 Live: "I can't wait. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. He's coming towards the end of his career. For me personally, he's the best player to ever touch a football pitch. And yeah, I can't wait for the challenge." He also told talkSPORT: "I know there's a bit of history there, and I know they're going to be fired up for it. So I think we just match their energy, match their passion, and go even harder. But yeah, of course, they have some great players. They've got Messi, in my opinion, he's been the best player in world football. I can't wait to play against him."
Match context and stakes
The FBI have labelled the match as 'highest risk' and police have issued a statement. England will need to contain Messi and Alvarez to progress to the final. O'Reilly's role will be crucial, with Deeney suggesting Djed Spence might be a better option to mark Messi.
