Joe Cole, a veteran of 56 England appearances, believes the current squad possesses the potential to finally lift the World Cup trophy this summer. Despite recent underwhelming performances – a draw against Uruguay and a loss to Japan – Cole maintains a strong conviction in the team’s ability to succeed.
The key, according to Cole, lies in the selections made by manager Thomas Tuchel. With crucial decisions to be made across multiple positions, including defense, midfield, and attack, the right team composition is paramount. Cole has a clear vision for one particular area of the pitch: the right wing.
Cole advocates for Chelsea’s Cole Palmer to take the starting spot ahead of Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka. While Saka has been a consistent presence, his recent form has been concerning, with only two goals scored since early December. Palmer, in contrast, has demonstrated a consistent goal-scoring touch, finding the net ten times across all competitions.
Beyond Palmer, Cole also champions Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon for a place on the left flank, praising his relentless work rate and goal-scoring ability. He believes Gordon’s energy and direct running will provide valuable support for Harry Kane.
However, Cole identifies Declan Rice as the most vital player in Tuchel’s squad. He envisions Rice operating in a deeper midfield role than he often does for Arsenal, tasked with shielding the defense and dictating the tempo of play. Cole stresses the importance of Rice’s defensive contribution for England’s success.
Cole’s ideal England lineup features a familiar face in goal – Jordan Pickford – and a solid defensive core of Reece James, Marc Guehi, and John Stones. Despite Stones’ limited playing time this season, Cole values his experience as crucial for navigating the pressures of a World Cup tournament.
Further forward, Cole proposes a dynamic midfield quartet of Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, and Palmer. This combination, he believes, offers the perfect blend of power, creativity, and goal-scoring threat. He sees Palmer’s ability to drift inside and play as a second number ten as a particularly potent weapon.
England’s World Cup journey begins on June 17th against Croatia, followed by group stage matches against Ghana and Panama. Cole is confident that with the right personnel and tactical approach, this England team can finally end the nation’s 60-year wait for World Cup glory.
He believes this team, built on a foundation of control and relentless pressing, has the quality to not only advance from their group but to ultimately conquer the tournament and bring the trophy home.
