Troy Deeney has expressed frustration with Nico O'Reilly's performances at the World Cup, suggesting the England player has been "getting away with murder."
Deeney, a former Watford striker, made his comments on talkSPORT, criticizing O'Reilly's level of play, stating that for a player of his talent and ability, "okay" should not be considered good enough.
O'Reilly has played in every England game at the World Cup, but Deeney believes he has been no better than Arsenal winger Noni Madueke, who has also been underwhelming in his performances.
Deeney thinks that in the semi-final against Argentina, England manager Tuchel should consider a different option at left-back, citing Djed Spence as a better equipped player to handle Lionel Messi.
Spence impressed from the bench against Norway, and Deeney believes he should be given the opportunity to match Messi, instructing him to "just follow him" and "if he goes inside, go inside."
The health of key players is a concern ahead of the semi-finals, with O'Reilly's fitness having been a worry. However, he is now expected to be available to start on Wednesday in Atlanta.
Declan Rice is also thought to be fit enough to be involved, having only managed the first half of the win over Norway in the quarter-finals due to illness. Reece James returned from the bench in that match after a hamstring problem and may be risked from the start against Argentina, with Jarell Quansah still suspended.
