Tuchel Says Alex Scott Can Challenge Rice for England Midfield Spot

LONDON: England manager Thomas Tuchel has said Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott can challenge Declan Rice for a place in the national team’s midfield after an impressive first international start against Croatia.

Scott, who came into the side after Rice withdrew from the squad, partnered Elliot Anderson in midfield during England’s emphatic 7-0 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League on Saturday.

The pair controlled the midfield effectively despite facing experienced Croatian players Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic, earning praise from Tuchel for their performance.

Asked whether Rice could be concerned about his place in the starting lineup, Tuchel acknowledged that competition for positions was necessary.

“Of course, and he does, we need performances like this,” Tuchel said, stressing that England could not rely on only two central midfielders.

Tuchel nevertheless underlined Rice’s importance to the team, describing the Arsenal midfielder as one of the best midfielders in Europe and indicating that Scott’s emergence was intended to provide greater depth and variety rather than diminish Rice’s standing.

“Declan knows about his importance, and he’s one of the very best midfielders in Europe,” Tuchel said. “Nothing will change that.”

The England manager added that having more midfield options would give the team greater tactical flexibility and allow him to manage players more effectively.

Scott’s emergence has provided another option for Tuchel as England continue their Nations League campaign. The 23-year-old made his international debut in England’s earlier victory over the Czech Republic before starting against Croatia.

However, Scott has since withdrawn from the England squad because of an injury sustained during the Croatia match. Arsenal defender Ezri Konsa has also left the squad because of injury.

England are second in their Nations League group behind World Cup holders Spain and are scheduled to host the Czech Republic at Wembley on Tuesday.