England's midfield battle heats up as Elliot Anderson and Alex Scott vie for a spot beside Declan Rice. The No 8 role has been the focal point of attention, with Thomas Tuchel keen to assess who can complement Rice best.
Anderson, currently dominating the position, boasts impressive defensive credentials. His statistics show he's a master of the deep-lying midfield role, excelling in areas such as total touches, forward passes, duels won, tackles, and recoveries. While his nearest rival in duels won and tackles is Scott, Anderson edges him out when it comes to tackling and recovering.
Meanwhile, Wharton has consistently impressed with his passing range, having created 14 chances this season – just one fewer than Anderson. His ability to unpick defenses is a notable strength, although he's played fewer games in the Premier League to reach that total.
As Tuchel weighs up his midfield options for the World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, it's clear that Scott will need to prove himself in a more disciplined defensive role if given the chance. His natural dynamism may be less suitable for this specific position, but he could still make an impact by adapting to Rice's playing style.
Henderson, meanwhile, is beating his rivals with blocks, ranking highly with both long balls and forward passes – a priority for Tuchel in international matches. However, when focusing on attacking areas, Wharton stands out as the most dynamic midfielder, capable of creating chances and passing quality.
With only four matches to go before Tuchel makes his World Cup squad selection, this international break feels crucial in determining which midfielder will be Rice's trusted partner. Whoever it is will need to possess positional intelligence, playmaker qualities, and defensive prowess – all essential for complementing Rice effectively.
Given the evidence, Anderson appears set to be a solid choice, but Scott, Wharton, and possibly Kobbie Mainoo, could still make a case for themselves before the World Cup squad is finalized. As Tuchel weighs up his options, it's clear that only time will tell which three midfielders will join Rice in the World Cup.
Anderson, currently dominating the position, boasts impressive defensive credentials. His statistics show he's a master of the deep-lying midfield role, excelling in areas such as total touches, forward passes, duels won, tackles, and recoveries. While his nearest rival in duels won and tackles is Scott, Anderson edges him out when it comes to tackling and recovering.
Meanwhile, Wharton has consistently impressed with his passing range, having created 14 chances this season – just one fewer than Anderson. His ability to unpick defenses is a notable strength, although he's played fewer games in the Premier League to reach that total.
As Tuchel weighs up his midfield options for the World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, it's clear that Scott will need to prove himself in a more disciplined defensive role if given the chance. His natural dynamism may be less suitable for this specific position, but he could still make an impact by adapting to Rice's playing style.
Henderson, meanwhile, is beating his rivals with blocks, ranking highly with both long balls and forward passes – a priority for Tuchel in international matches. However, when focusing on attacking areas, Wharton stands out as the most dynamic midfielder, capable of creating chances and passing quality.
With only four matches to go before Tuchel makes his World Cup squad selection, this international break feels crucial in determining which midfielder will be Rice's trusted partner. Whoever it is will need to possess positional intelligence, playmaker qualities, and defensive prowess – all essential for complementing Rice effectively.
Given the evidence, Anderson appears set to be a solid choice, but Scott, Wharton, and possibly Kobbie Mainoo, could still make a case for themselves before the World Cup squad is finalized. As Tuchel weighs up his options, it's clear that only time will tell which three midfielders will join Rice in the World Cup.
but we gotta remember Wharton's got some sick passing range 
and has created a bunch of chances this season 
. And what about Scott, he's definitely got the dynamism to adapt to Rice's style 
. Henderson's blocks are on point too 
, but I think Wharton's creativity would be a game-changer in those World Cup matches 
️. It's hard to pick just one, but I'm excited to see how Tuchel makes his final decision! 
. Scott needs to step up his defensive game if he wants a spot beside Rice though... I'm rooting for Wharton, he's the most dynamic midfielder in that squad 
. But at the same time, Mainoo's been quiet lately and I don't know where Tuchel sees him fitting in 
Whatever happens, I'm excited to see how it all unfolds! 
. It's not just about running around and hoping to get the ball, it needs a lot of strategy and understanding of each other's games. Those young players have got some serious skills 
, but it's not just about individual brilliance, they need to work together like a well-oiled machine 
.
whoever gets picked will be golden 
️
. The World Cup qualifiers can't come soon enough! 
! It's not just about who can outscore who, but also about having the right player for the No 8 role. I think they need someone with that positional intelligence and defensive prowess to complement Declan Rice effectively 
. Whoever makes it will need to have that combination of playmaker qualities and defensive skills 
. Only time will tell who'll be Rice's trusted partner! 
. but what's worrying is if he can bring that to the international stage 
.
. So, I think what Tuchel needs to focus on is finding that balance between individual talent and teamwork. And trust me, whoever gets the spot will need to be able to adapt and evolve – life's all about growth, right? 
!
! Anderson's defense is solid, no doubt about it