Tuchel's centre-back pairing confirmed
Marc Guehi has won his fitness battle and is set to start alongside John Stones in the heart of England's defence for their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Norway, according to reports. The Manchester City defender missed training sessions this week with a minor hamstring strain suffered in the last-16 win over Mexico, but has been cleared to play at Miami Stadium.
Controversial switch at right-back
Manager Thomas Tuchel is expected to make a bold and potentially unpopular decision by shifting Ezri Konsa from centre-back to right-back, a role he is not widely known for. This move would see Aston Villa's Konsa filling in at full-back, while Stones returns to the side after being dropped since the opening group game against Croatia.
Rice fit to start
Further good news for England sees Declan Rice available after overcoming a sickness bug. The Arsenal midfielder's presence will be crucial in shielding the defence against the threat of Norway's Erling Haaland.
Tuchel's controversial reshuffle could define the quarter-final clash, with England aiming to book a semi-final spot and continue their pursuit of glory on the global stage.
