Jamie Carragher has laid the blame for England's right-back conundrum squarely at the feet of manager Thomas Tuchel, describing the call-up of Trevoh Chalobah as a 'bizarre decision' that has left the Three Lions exposed ahead of their last-16 World Cup clash against Mexico.
With Reece James and Jarell Quansah both struggling with injuries, Tuchel is facing a crisis in the right-back position after Djed Spence's unconvincing display in the win over DR Congo forced Declan Rice to finish the match out of position.
Carragher's 'Bizarre Decision' Criticism
Speaking on Sky Sports, the former England defender did not hold back.
'It's not been right. Calling up Chalobah for the injured Livramento was a bizarre decision. You've created a problem in a position where you were already short,'Carragher said. He highlighted that Tuchel's decision to overlook natural right-back options now risks disrupting the midfield by forcing Rice to cover.
'Rice needs to play in the middle. He's our best holding midfielder, and moving him weakens us in two positions.'
Tuchel's Selection Headache
England's injury list at right-back is alarming. Reece James, long considered first choice, is a major doubt with a hamstring issue. Jarell Quansah, a centre-back by trade who has deputised on the right, is also a worry. Tino Livramento was originally ruled out of the tournament through injury, prompting Tuchel to draft in Trevoh Chalobah – a player primarily a centre-back, and with limited international experience. The gamble backfired when Spence struggled, leaving the manager with few palatable options.
Potential Solutions
Carragher believes the answer is to move Ezri Konsa to right-back and partner John Stones with Marc Guehi in the centre.
'Konsa has played at right-back for Aston Villa and he's defensively sound. It's a much better option than square pegs in round holes,'he argued. Another option is to deploy a three at the back system, but that would mean a reshuffle of the entire system so close to a knockout match, a risk Tuchel is unlikely to take. Ultimately, the decision may hinge on late fitness tests for James and Quansah.
Key Takeaways
- Jamie Carragher has heavily criticised Thomas Tuchel's handling of England's right-back situation, calling the Chalobah call-up 'bizarre'.
- Injuries to Reece James and Jarell Quansah have left England thin, with Djed Spence failing to impress against DR Congo.
- Carragher urges Tuchel to start Ezri Konsa at right-back rather than moving Declan Rice from midfield.
- The dilemma threatens England's balance and solidity just days before a highly anticipated last-16 match against Mexico.
Quick Facts
England's Next Match: vs Mexico, 6 July 2026
Injured Right-backs: Reece James (doubtful), Jarell Quansah (doubtful), Tino Livramento (out)
Carragher's Preferred Solution: Ezri Konsa at right-back
Tuchel's Controversial Call-up: Trevoh Chalobah
