THOMAS TUCHEL explained why he made three changes for the Argentina semi-final.
England face Lionel Messi and Co in Atlanta with a place in the World Cup final up for grabs.
Thomas Tuchel made three changes for the England team to face Argentina Credit: PA
Reece James and Djed Spence come into the starting XI Credit: Reuters
The boss was not happy with the performance against Norway as Jude Bellingham got England over the line.
And he responded by shaking up the starting XI.
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Nico O’Reilly, Ezri Konsa and Noni Madueke were all dropped – with Djed Spence, Reece James and Morgan Rogers coming in.
And asked about his decisions, Tuchel said: “Reece and Djed are specialists. They deserve to play.
“Reece has the quality to play at the highest level. He does not show any nerves.
“Djed, we want his speed and agility. He impressed in the last matches from the bench. We want the full-backs to be involved in the attack, that’s why.
“Morgan starting is a feeling from the coach – a gut feeling. I feel that he has something special to give today.
“I felt he was very strong in the match against Norway.
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“In between, he had outstanding training sessions to follow up on that performance. It’s just a feeling.”
Tuchel confirmed Konsa is not injured – but opted for an out-and-out right-back now that James is fit and available.
The German added: “No, Ezri is not a full-back per se.
“We decided for John [Stones] today.
“In the last matches, we decided for Ezri and he started every match. It’s just a sporting decision.”
