Rice Emerges as England's Right-Back Fix vs Mexico
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- Declan Rice moved to right-back in the 70th minute against DR Congo, making the driving run into the box that created England's equalizer in a 2-1 win that sealed their place in the World Cup last 16.
- Five players — Reece James, Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence, Rice, and Ezri Konsa — have been used at right-back across four World Cup games, with James and Quansah now injured.
- Thomas Tuchel revealed the switch came from assistant Anthony Barry, citing Rice's crossing quality and the improved connection it offered alongside Arsenal teammates Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze.
- Djed Spence lost possession 17 times per Opta — the most by any England player — before being substituted, having been dragged out of position for DR Congo's opening goal.
- Mexico ranks 35 places above Panama and 32 above DR Congo in FIFA rankings, posing a stiffer test after England were cut through in transition when Rice was rested against Panama.
- Gary Neville pointed out on ITV that Rice previously played right-back for Arsenal at West Ham before Mikel Arteta shifted him back to midfield — the same dilemma now facing Tuchel.
Why it matters: England have churned through five right-backs in four games and now face Mexico — ranked 32-35 places higher than DR Congo and Panama — forcing Tuchel into a choice between Rice's attacking thrust at right-back and the midfield control he provides in the centre.
