‘Even at 80% fit, he has to start!’ – Micah Richards urges Thomas Tuchel to recall Bukayo Saka for Mexico clash

Micah Richards believes Thomas Tuchel must make a bold selection call ahead of England’s World Cup Round of 16 showdown with Mexico by restoring Bukayo Saka to the starting lineup.

The former England defender argued that the Three Lions have lacked attacking sharpness and insists Saka should replace Noni Madueke on the right wing.

Richards calls for immediate Saka return

England eventually booked their place in the last 16 after battling back to defeat DR Congo 2-1, but Richards was left unconvinced by the performance.

Speaking on the BBC, the former Manchester City defender urged Tuchel to freshen up his attacking options.

“He needs to sort out the right-back area and decide which wingers he wants to play,” Richards said.

“I think Marcus Rashford didn’t really live up to expectations, and Anthony Gordon did really well on that left-hand side when he came on.

“But if Saka is fit, Saka has to start – it’s as simple as that. Even if he’s 80 per cent fit, he has to start.”

Saka’s experience gives him the edge

Madueke has enjoyed regular involvement during the tournament, starting three matches and registering an assist in England’s opening victory over Croatia.

However, Saka’s international pedigree remains difficult to overlook.

The Arsenal winger has accumulated 53 England appearances, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists, while already contributing two assists despite making just one start at this World Cup.

His creativity and ability to stretch defences could prove vital against a well-organised Mexican side.

Tuchel praises tactical tweak against DR Congo

England’s comeback against DR Congo was sparked by an unexpected tactical adjustment.

Assistant coach Anthony Barry suggested moving Declan Rice to right-back during the closing stages, allowing England to deliver more dangerous crosses while providing additional support on the flank.

The switch immediately changed the momentum of the match, with Harry Kane scoring twice to seal a dramatic victory.

After the game, Tuchel praised his assistant’s intervention.

“Anthony Barry had a brilliant idea to put Declan there,” Tuchel explained.

“To have his quality from the side, to get more difficult crosses in there, more difficult to defend, more crosses and outswingers.

“Also have a bit more support for Saka, and with Ebs Eze we had a bit more of a connection on the right side that helped and opened it up. So full credit to my assistant.”

Selection headache before Mexico

With England now preparing for a difficult knockout clash against Mexico, Tuchel faces several key decisions.

Whether he follows Richards’ advice by restoring Saka from the start could have a significant impact on England’s hopes of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals.

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