World Cup 2026: Tuchel's England, the search for the right formula on the flanks continues – Alan Shearer
Former England captain Alan Shearer criticized the condition of the Three Lions in the 2026 World Cup, especially the challenge of choosing the right combination of players on the sides, amid the lack of stability in the starting eleven.
There are many positives for England at the 2026 World Cup, but not having a permanent starting eleven is one of them. They successfully secured first place in the group, but they entered the knockout stage still full of experimenting by coach Thomas Tuchel in different positions, particularly on the flanks.
Alan Shearer admitted that although it is not necessary to know all the answers at this point, it is still important for Tuchel to form the right combination of full-backs and wingers. During the 270 minutes of the group stage, the lineup changed nine times in close quarters of the pitch, including eight different players. Injuries to Reece James and Jarell Quansah had a big impact, as well as Bukayo Saka not being 100%.
As a result, England's threat on the flanks has not been consistent, and the defense has deteriorated further due to the frequent changes in the back four. Even though there are various challenges, Elliot Anderson (who was great against Panama), Jude Bellingham (man of the match), Harry Kane, Jordan Pickford and Declan Rice are still standing as pillars of the team.
<figure style="margin:2rem 0;overflow:hidden;border:1px solid #e2e2e2;background:#f9f9f9"><img src="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/branded_sport/1200/cpsprodpb/4000/live/e23d0350-7385-11f1-9e21-8bd55db03589.jpg" alt="Image" style="width:100%;height:auto;object-fit:contain" loading="lazy" /></figure>Shearer insisted that the contribution of star players remains important—such as Bellingham's goal from Saka's corner against Panama, which was key to their victory. Set-piece plays are important, but England would have preferred to create more chances from open play.
Despite the positive points, England's defense continues to be an issue. In the three matches in the group stage, weakness at the back was noticed—from poor defense against Croatia (two goals immediately), to shaky performances against Ghana and Panama. Shearer thinks that big improvements are needed, especially with stronger opponents who are likely to face the knockout rounds, such as Mexico or Ecuador.
Tuchel's injuries and forced rotations also had a big impact. There could be another change in the back four against DR Congo: Spence could return to right-back, move Erzi Konsa from centre-back, and if John Stones is fit, he will partner Marc Guehi.
Shearer is confident England can get through the next match, but insists the team can only go far in the tournament if they find defensive consistency and a more solid form on the flanks.
