There is a rumour doing the rounds about Declan Rice that John Terry is not happy about.
England face DR Congo tonight in the World Cup Round of 32, and Thomas Tuchel has a huge dilemma regarding his team selection.
It revolves around the right-back crisis England have. Tino Livramento was ruled out before the group stage even began before Reece James predictably picked up an injury.
Then, Jarrell Quansah, who filled in as an auxiliary right-back in his place, got injured against Panama.
Should Tino Livramento’s injury history put Arsenal off signing him?
Tuchel is now short of options in that area, a consequence of picking players with evident injury histories.
You have to assume Ben White would have played an important part had he been available, given his natural understanding with Arsenal teammates Noni Madueke and, in particular, Bukayo Saka down that right flank.
However, his knee injury during the Premier League title run-in cost him his place.
John Terry is hearing Declan Rice could play right-back for England
Speaking on TikTok ahead of tonight’s game, Terry mentioned that he has been hearing that Declan Rice could fill in at right-back against DR Congo.
“Hopefully the rumours are not true about Declan Rice playing at right-back,” Terry said. “Hopefully Spence plays.”
Rice has played right-back on a couple of occasions under Mikel Arteta, so it wouldn’t be something he’s totally unfamiliar with.
🏆 Which Arsenal star will go the furthest at this summer’s World Cup?
Zubimendi and Spain? Saka and England? Saliba and France?
And there is some logic to it. With Jude Bellingham and Elliot Anderson available in midfield, Tuchel may feel he has enough quality in the centre to afford Rice out wide, particularly against opposition where England will dominate possession.
But Rice is one of the best midfielders in the world. Using him at full-back against DR Congo feels like an unnecessary compromise, even if the circumstances are forcing Tuchel’s hand. Djed Spence is fit and the more natural solution.
But Arsenal fans may have their concerns about Rice right now. Much like Saka, he has already been managing some discomfort in his lower back and hamstring during this tournament, and was given a rest against Panama.
Playing him out of position in a physically demanding role only adds to the risk of aggravating something before the knockout stages get truly serious.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
