Paul Merson has raised concerns that Declan Rice could be left vulnerable if England manager Thomas Tuchel deploys him as a makeshift right-back in the World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico. The Arsenal midfielder was forced into the role during England's dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo on Wednesday, after injuries to Tino Livramento and Reece James left Tuchel short of options.
Rice's Right-Back Cameo
Djed Spence started at right-back against DR Congo but was caught out of position for Brian Cipenga's seventh-minute opener. Tuchel replaced Spence with Eberechi Eze in the second half, moving Rice to right-back. Rice helped steady the defence, and Harry Kane scored a crucial equaliser before winning the match with a stoppage-time strike. After the game, a visibly exhausted Rice told the BBC: 'It was probably the hardest 12 minutes of the game having a stint at right-back. I have played there two or three times this season, I know the role, it is probably not my biggest strength, but to do anything for the team and the manager. Hopefully I don't have to be at right back.'
Merson's Assessment
Former England international Paul Merson praised Rice's performance but warned about the risks. 'You know what, for the 15 minutes or so that he had at right-back he was outstanding,' Merson told Sky Sports. 'My problem is that when you've got a game like Mexico where they're isolated and it will be one-vs-ones… he'll do a job, of course he will, he's Declan Rice, a brilliant professional and a brilliant player but I don't know.' Merson suggested alternatives, such as sticking with Spence, dropping Jude Bellingham back, or playing Jordan Henderson. 'But that could come back to bite Tuchel, this right-back situation,' he added.
Midfield Dilemma
Merson favoured Bellingham coming from deep and suggested Rice might start at right-back to allow a midfield of Henderson, Elliot Anderson, and Bellingham. He also recommended Morgan Rogers in the hole over Eze, citing Mexico's attacking intent. 'I would probably put Morgan Rogers in the hole instead of Eze in this game because I think Mexico will have a go at England,' Merson said.
Kane's Brilliance
Merson was full of praise for Harry Kane, who scored twice against DR Congo, taking his World Cup tally to 13 goals in 15 appearances. 'Phenomenal, absolutely phenomenal. Top drawer, absolutely world-class,' Merson said. 'His second goal is just unbelievable. If Lionel Messi had scored that or Kylian Mbappe then we'd be going mad.' He added that Kane is in the Ballon d'Or conversation if he continues scoring and England win the World Cup.
Altitude Concern
Merson also expressed worry about the match being played at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, which sits 7,000 feet above sea level. 'My biggest worry is this next game in Mexico in the altitude. It's such a difficult game,' he said. 'Talent-wise, I don't think Mexico have got a player who could get in the England team, but when you're playing the way they're playing with the fans and in the stadium, with that altitude, I think this is a difficult, difficult game. I think this is a heads or tails football match and I wouldn't be shocked if we didn't win.'
