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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Alan Smith

Thomas Tuchel explains England team selection and why he dropped Anthony Gordon

  • Thomas Tuchel has made five changes to his England side as they face Panama in their final Group L game and aim to finish as group winners.
  • Following the 0-0 draw to Ghana , Jarell Quansah is in for the injured Reece James, Nico O’Reilly returns to the back line over Djed Spence, Morgan Rogers replaces Declan Rice , Bukayo Saka starts his first game this World Cup instead of his Arsenal team mate Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford comes in for Barcelona winger Anthony Gordon.
  • Explaining his selection, Tuchel tells ITV: “I’m always excited by my team, a very offensive team. The target is to keep up the speed of the game, with devotion and commitment. We have things to improve but we’re ready for it.
  • On the wingers: “You focus too much on individual positions. Anthony did well, Marcus did well, Noni did well and Bukayo gets a chance now. It’s not just about Marcus or Anthony.”
  • On Bellingham and Rogers, he added: “I take care of Declan’s situation. He got a knock ... I’d like to manage his minutes a bit and he has a yellow card. That’s why Jude goes in the No.8 position and Morgan in the No.10.”

IN FULL

England v Panama LIVE: Three Lions make five key changes for crunch World Cup group stage finale

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