Former England international Scott Parker has pushed back against suggestions that manager Thomas Tuchel should drop Declan Rice from the starting lineup. Parker insists that the Arsenal midfielder is essential if England hopes to lift the World Cup trophy. Rice has been navigating a lingering back injury and was previously benched against Panama due to fitness concerns and yellow card accumulation.
While some pundits, including Paul Scholes, have proposed using Elliot Anderson as the lone defensive midfielder for the upcoming last-32 match against DR Congo, Parker remains firm. He described Rice as a foundational pillar for Tuchel, praising his versatility, physical strength, and ball-carrying ability. According to Parker, Rice is not only a reliable defensive anchor but also a vital creator who contributes significantly to set-pieces.
Reflecting on Rice’s journey from being released by Chelsea to becoming a Premier League standout, Parker highlighted the player’s character and resilience. Tuchel, who succeeded Gareth Southgate, is aiming to end England’s long wait for a World Cup title. If the team advances past DR Congo, they are set to meet either Ecuador or Mexico in the quarter-finals.
