After the high of the thrilling win over Croatia, England’s expectations suffered a reality check against Ghana.The 0-0 draw on Tuesday raised familiar questions about the team’s inability to deal with sides set up to defend deep and whether this squad has the creativity needed to go deep into this tournament.It also meant that Saturday’s game against Panama, which most had expected to be a dead rubber, will assume far greater significance. Although The Athletic’s projection model gives England an 84 per cent chance of topping the group and theoretically securing a gentler last-32 tie, they still have work to do.So, how should Thomas Tuchel set up his team?Cerys JonesPanama should be beatable opponents, but Tuchel will not want to take too many risks. England do not need to panic, so this is a chance to fine-tune rather than make wholesale changes.Tuchel seems impressed with the centre-back partnership of Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi and while John Stones and Guehi could perform well, let’s stick with stability. As Tuchel has already explained that he believes Djed Spence can play on either side, I would bring Nico O’Reilly back in on the left and rest Reece James.Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson and Jude Bellingham stay as the midfield trio, with Harry Kane ahead of them. However, I would shake up the wide positions. After Marcus Rashford’s impact off the bench against Croatia, he should be given a chance from the start. I’m nervous over Bukayo Saka’s fitness, so Noni Madueke keeps his spot.It would be good to see Ollie Watkins come off the bench, and for England to try slightly different game plans with their wide players. If they are struggling to work through a low block, try switching Rashford and Madueke and using their crossing ability from their stronger feet to exploit England’s physical presence.Liam TharmeWhat England need against Panama is not just three points to guarantee top spot in the group, but also a better creative display and more incision against what is likely to be a 5-4-1.If I were Tuchel, I’d start largely the same team that finished the goalless draw with Ghana. Rashford and O’Reilly should come in for Spence and Gordon to refresh the left side. Gordon is a player for high-pressing opponents like Croatia, whereas Rashford’s goal threat and inswinging cross quality is needed here, as is O’Reilly’s aerial threat and press resistance for when he shifts infield from left-back.The Rice, Anderson and Bellingham midfield trio is working well and is excellent at counter-pressing, but this match needs Morgan Rogers’ long-distance shooting and strength to receive passes into midfield, so he should replace Rice.
England need a statement win against Panama. Who should Tuchel pick to deliver it?
After the drab draw with Ghana, how does England's head coach lift the mood for what has become a must-win group game?










