Tuchel still seeking solutions out wide, says Shearer

Alan Shearer has expressed concerns about England's lack of a settled side at the World Cup, despite topping their group. The former striker notes that manager Thomas Tuchel is still searching for solutions, particularly out wide, after three group-stage matches.

Unsettled lineup and defensive concerns

England arrived in the last 32 after significant chopping and changing in several positions, leaving the team no closer to knowing its best lineup. Shearer highlighted that Tuchel has tried nine different combinations of full-backs and wingers across 270 minutes, involving eight different players. Injuries to Reece James and Jarell Quansah at right-back, as well as Bukayo Saka not being fully fit, have contributed to the instability.

“We have not posed a consistent threat down the flanks and constantly changing the back four has not helped our defensive stability either,” Shearer wrote in his column. “We've looked uncomfortable whenever teams have attacked us, which is a worry.”

Positive signs from key players

Despite the tactical uncertainties, several players have delivered strong performances. Elliot Anderson was “absolutely superb” against Panama, Jude Bellingham was named man of the match, and Harry Kane scored again. Along with Jordan Pickford and Declan Rice, they form the spine of the team. “You know you can hang your hat on them when it matters,” Shearer said.

Shearer acknowledged that relying on individual brilliance, such as Bellingham’s goal from a corner against Panama, is not ideal but noted that set-pieces remain crucial. “It wasn't even a particularly good ball in, but Bellingham made it into one,” he added.

Challenges ahead against DR Congo

Looking ahead to the match against DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday, Shearer expects the opposition to defend in numbers and hit on the break, similar to Ghana and Panama. He emphasized the need for England to show what they have learned, particularly in how they deliver crosses. Shearer observed that wingers Marcus Rashford and Saka have been cutting inside to put inswinging balls, which are easier for defenders to clear. “We look more dangerous when they go on the outside then put crosses in, like Bellingham did for Kane's goal,” he said.

Shearer concluded that while England have not yet shown their best form going forward, the biggest concern is defensive vulnerability. “We have not seen the best of this England team yet going forward but my biggest concern so far is how many times we have been opened up at the back,” he wrote.