UMVA has learned that Liverpool legend and ex-England defender Jamie Carragher has shared his thoughts on England's World Cup campaign, expressing concerns about the team's defensive lineup and player fitness.
Carragher believes that Marc Guehi should have started in the back four, citing worries about John Stones' fitness levels after a busy schedule over the past few years. He emphasizes that Stones brings experience, but it's crucial to get him up to speed before the knockout stages.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Carragher also weighed in on Declan Rice's involvement against Ghana, suggesting that his substitution against Croatia was precautionary due to an ongoing injury. Carragher thinks it's essential to ensure Rice is 100% fit for the next game.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Carragher is more concerned about Bukayo Saka's fitness, who didn't start the first game. He believes that if Saka doesn't start soon, it might be challenging for him to regain his optimal form in time for the knockout stages.
The longer the tournament progresses without Saka starting, the more difficult it will be to expect him to perform at his best when it's needed most. Carragher stresses that it's crucial not to risk Saka's fitness, as losing him for the tournament would be a significant blow.
UMVA has gathered that Carragher also praised England's performance against Croatia but cautions against getting carried away with the win. He notes that many teams have delivered impressive performances in the World Cup so far and that England should focus on the next two group games before getting excited about the knockout stages.
Carragher's comments come as England aims to win the World Cup for the first time since 1966, having come close to silverware under Sir Gareth Southgate's management. Southgate's England has consistently performed well in major tournaments, reaching the semi-finals in 2018 and the quarters in 2022.
