Skip to content
England vs Panama: Tuchel's Selection Dilemma Ahead of World Cup ClashThomas Tuchel faces key selection decisions for England's World Cup match against Panama. After a 0-0 draw with Ghana, changes are expected, with Alan Shearer suggesting starts for Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka, and a return for Nico O'Reilly at left-back./images/2026/06/england-vs-panama-tuchel-s-selection-dilemma-ahead-of-world-cup-clash-7841c28e-800w.webpEngland vs Panama: Tuchel's Selection Dilemma Ahead of World Cup Clash

England vs Panama: Tuchel's Selection Dilemma Ahead of World Cup Clash

Updated 1 min read
England football manager Thomas Tuchel looking at a tactics board with player names, preparing for the World Cup match against Panama.

Short overview

Thomas Tuchel faces key selection decisions for England's World Cup match against Panama. After a 0-0 draw with Ghana, changes are expected, with Alan Shearer suggesting starts for Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka, and a return for Nico O'Reilly at left-back.

Thomas Tuchel faces key selection decisions ahead of England's second World Cup group game against Panama on Sunday. After making two changes for Tuesday's 0-0 draw with Ghana, the England head coach is expected to rotate his squad again.

Tuchel's Changes Against Ghana

For the match against Ghana, Tuchel brought in Djed Spence and Marc Guehi, replacing Nico O'Reilly and John Stones. The result was a goalless stalemate, prompting questions about the starting lineup for the upcoming fixture.

Shearer's Recommendations

Former England forward Alan Shearer has weighed in on the selection debate. Speaking to BBC Sport, Shearer said: "I think Tuchel will change it up. Bukayo Saka and Rashford have definitely done enough when they have come on in both games to get a chance to start."

Shearer also suggested a defensive change: "Another change I can see happening is at left-back, with O'Reilly coming back in for Spence."

Other Potential Changes

There is also speculation about whether Declan Rice will be rested, given his heavy workload in recent matches. Tuchel has not confirmed his plans, but the England manager is known for his tactical flexibility.

Fan Selection

Fans are also being invited to select their preferred England XI using an interactive selector tool. The exercise allows supporters to voice their opinions on who should start against Panama.

England will be looking to secure their first win of the tournament after the disappointing draw with Ghana. Panama, meanwhile, will be aiming to cause an upset.

All Matches

Search