Wayne Rooney believes Thomas Tuchel should have contacted Kyle Walker regarding a potential call-up to the England squad for the World Cup, particularly after Tino Livramento was forced to withdraw due to injury. Walker, who retired from international football in March after earning 96 caps, is still capable of performing at the highest level, according to Rooney.
"The minute Tino Livramento got injured, Thomas Tuchel should have been on the phone to Kyle Walker," Rooney stated on the BBC. "Walker is still more than good enough and more than capable to play in this England team. That could really cost us."
England faced challenges in their recent World Cup match against DR Congo, with Djed Spence starting at right-back in the absence of Reece James and Jarell Quansah. Spence was substituted after a difficult performance, with Declan Rice taking his place. Rooney expressed significant concerns about England's defensive vulnerabilities, especially the connection between the backline and midfield.
"For me there are big concerns," Rooney added. "We are all delighted England have gone through but in particular when England lose the ball they are so open. Against a better team I think we are in big trouble if we don't sort that out. The connection isn't great between the backline and midfield, the full-backs are struggling, [Noni] Madueke struggled. There are just no connections and big gaps in the middle of the pitch and that is a big worry for me. He [Tuchel] really needs to look at that otherwise we will go out."
England secured a 2-1 victory over DR Congo, coming from behind after Brian Cipenga scored early in the match. Harry Kane scored both goals for England, including a late winner, to advance the team to the last 16. They are scheduled to face Mexico in their next match.
