Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has expressed his doubts about England's starting lineup for their next match against DR Congo. Scholes, an England legend, believes that the team doesn't need to play two sitting midfielders in the upcoming game.
Speaking on a popular podcast, Scholes stated that he would leave Declan Rice on the bench and opt for Elliot Anderson instead. He cited that Arsenal, Rice's current team, didn't play great football last season, and Rice struggled to get Martin Odegaard involved in the game. Scholes thinks that Anderson would bring a different dynamic to the team, passing the ball forward more.
Scholes also expressed his concerns about England's overall performance in the tournament, stating that he hasn't seen a team that will win the World Cup. However, he acknowledged that the team has match winners and could improve their game.
Scholes' views are not unique, as his former teammate Nicky Butt also urged England manager Thomas Tuchel to pick only one sitting midfielder. Butt would start Rice over Anderson, citing that Rice is a top player who should not be left out of the starting lineup.
DR Congo, England's next opponents, finished third in Group K after a mixed campaign. The team will be looking to cause an upset against England, who are expected to return to their starting lineup.
