Debate is heating up over the England squad as the team prepares to face Mexico in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has expressed disappointment over the exclusion of Kobbie Mainoo and Eberechi Eze from the starting lineup. Scholes claims that these two players are England's 'two best footballers', yet they have been largely overlooked by manager Thomas Tuchel.
Nicky Butt, a former England player, has also spoken out about Mainoo's lack of minutes during the tournament. Butt believes that playing Mainoo or Eberechi Eze would give England the necessary flair to beat Mexico.
However, Scholes disagrees, stating that it would not be fair on Mainoo given his limited action during the tournament so far. Scholes questions why Tuchel included Mainoo in the World Cup squad if he was not going to play him.
England has struggled for fluency and control during the World Cup, despite topping Group L with seven points from a possible nine. The team's performance against DR Congo was a particular concern for Scholes, who believes that Tuchel should have taken more 'flair' players to the World Cup.
Scholes feels that Tuchel has made England's players more defensive-minded, which does not align with his own playing style. He believes that players like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden, who have flair and creativity, were left out of the squad and could have made a difference in England's game.
Mexico, on the other hand, has been impressive in the World Cup, topping Group A with wins over South Africa, South Korea, and Czech Republic. They have yet to concede a goal and will look to continue their winning streak against England.
