England also prepares with key fixtures lined up before World Cup. The search for a reliable midfield partner for Declan Rice has begun in earnest. With Rice, the team’s long-time incumbent, it is perhaps even more important that he times his influence on attacking and defensive phases well. With his impressive performance this season, which includes creating 14 chances, attention now turns to who could effectively complement him in midfield.
The focus now turns to Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton as possible replacements. Anderson has created 13 chances this season, one fewer than Rice’s total. Anderson has achieved this, remarkably, whilst playing two additional Premier League matches. This particular stat is an indication of Anderson’s ability to support the attack, if he ends up playing predominantly on the left, that could make things difficult. He and Rice both like to roam the same area of the pitch. This has the potential to lead to cluttered overlaps that break up England’s attacking flow.
Of the options currently available, Wharton is by far the most natural fit as a 6. In contrast to Anderson, Wharton prefers to stay further back in midfield, not frequently making runs into the attacking half. His ability to break down a defense with smart, incisive passing is one of the most impressive parts of his game. This skill could be invaluable in transitioning from defense to attack while maintaining structure in midfield.
Tuchel now has a treasure trove of midfield talent to pick from. Now, he just needs to figure out which other combinations would work best playing next to Rice. Both Jordan Henderson and Wharton offer deep-lying capabilities, providing a solid foundation for more advanced players like Anderson and Alex Scott.
Scott presents another intriguing option. As it stands, he leads Anderson in most defensive metrics. These touches include duels won, tackles made, and possession wins in the final third, although his favourite position looks to be as a No 8. Scott’s versatility is his biggest strength, he’s proven himself capable in deeper roles at Bournemouth and Bristol City, showing he can do it all.
This flexibility raises questions of where Scott best fits in the middle. To keep the ball, he might have to go into some blood and guts duels for the ball. He will come under increasing pressure from Anderson, who’s among the defensive-minded qualities poising themselves at the head of a midfield trio at Tuchel’s disposal.
The Women’s World Cup is right around the corner! Tuchel intends to leave four or five central midfield players at home when they face England. Rice is, without a doubt, a lock to be selected—but there are questions about who his coattails will bring with him. This duo of Rice alongside either Anderson, Wharton or Scott should have a huge impact on England’s success at the global competition.
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