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England’s defence was literally perfect during the World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign.
During their eight games in UEFA Qualification Group K, the Three Lions did not ship in a single goal - a total of 12 hours without conceding.
But as Thomas Tuchel puts his final preparations in place for this summer’s tournament, his defensive situation is not as rosy as it seems.
Micah Richards on England’s defensive challenges
There are question marks over key personnel, with Chelsea’s Reece James having suffered a hamstring issue in March, while John Stones has endured an injury-hit campaign at Manchester City, limiting his playing time.
This means Tuchel faces big calls at the back, not least the age-old debate of whether to go with form or experience.
And this challenge is one that former England defender Micah Richards fully appreciates as he ponders the Three Lions defence line-up in North America this summer.
“My starting centre back next to Marc Guehi would be Stones when fully fit – this season though, he hasn’t been,” the former Manchester City man tells FourFourTwo.
“His experience could be important, but Ezri Konsa has had an excellent season. Do you pick on form or experience?
“The Golden Generation always seemed to be selected on their experience and that didn’t work out, yet you’re killed for leaving certain names out of the side. It’s difficult.”
Another selection debate is at the left-back spot, which appears to be up for grabs, just weeks out of the tournament, with Luke Shaw not called up since Tuchel began the job last January.
“Lewis Hall is outstanding, but in terms of England caps, he’s pretty inexperienced,” Richards adds.
“There’s Nico O’Reilly as well, who can play that left-back role with the ability to move into midfield. My pick would be Hall.”
Tuchel has until Saturday, May 30 to make up his mind and submit his squad, 18 days ahead of England’s World Cup 2026 opener against Croatia.
