Former England defender Glen Johnson has urged Thomas Tuchel to drop Declan Rice and Harry Kane for the World Cup third-place play-off against France, citing fatigue and injury concerns after England's semi-final defeat to Argentina.
England's semi-final heartbreak
England saw their World Cup hopes end on Wednesday with a 2-1 loss to Argentina in the semi-finals. Late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez secured victory for the defending champions, who will now face Spain in the final. The Three Lions must now regroup for a third-place decider against France in Miami on Sunday.
Johnson calls for changes
Johnson, speaking to Metro, believes Tuchel should protect key players who have struggled with fitness. 'You can see by the end of the game against Argentina that the players were out on their feet,' he said. 'I can't see Rice playing at all. He has been carrying an injury, has been unwell during the tournament and had a very long season with Arsenal, so I don't see him being involved.'
Johnson also suggested resting captain Harry Kane, despite it potentially being his last World Cup appearance. 'I could see Bellingham playing, but I think Kane may not play as Watkins and Toney haven't played much and their freshness could help the team,' he added.
Lescott advocates strong lineup
However, fellow former England defender Joleon Lescott urged Tuchel to field his strongest side, viewing the match as preparation for future tournaments. 'Tuchel should look at this game as if it could be the Euros final in two years' time against France,' Lescott told Metro. 'The players will want to win. I don't care who he selects. They're all going to want to win.'
Lescott acknowledged the emotional challenge after such a defeat. 'I think emotionally it will be a far more difficult process than physically,' he said. 'The only plus is that France are in the same boat. They equally have a negative perception of the way they've performed, having been knocked out by the Spanish team.'
Both sides expected to rotate
Both England and France are expected to make several changes to their starting line-ups after a gruelling six-week tournament following a lengthy club season. France were beaten handily by Spain in their semi-final, missing out on a third successive World Cup final appearance.
