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England Deploy New Defence, Saka Misses, Eye Argentina

7/12/2026

35 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

England Sets XI

England will start Ezri Konsa at right-back and John Stones at centre-back in the July 11, 2026 match versus Norway in Miami.
Marc Guehi, cleared from a minor hamstring strain, joins John Stones in defence.
Noni Madueke starts on the wing ahead of Bukayo Saka, who sits out with Achilles tendinitis.
Thomas Tuchel confirmed players except suspended Jarell Quansah are available, with the winner set to meet Argentina or Switzerland in Atlanta.

Summary

Stones Right-Back

Danny Murphy, former England midfielder, argues Stones' experience and midfield-inverting skill suit him as right-back for the quarter-final.
Transfermarkt lists 65 club right-back appearances for Stones, including 19 for Barnsley in 2012-13 and a full 90-minute role in City’s 3-2 title-clincher over Aston Villa in 2021-22.
In England’s last-16 win over Mexico, Stones came on for 33 minutes, recorded five clearances and won his sole aerial duel.

History

Historical Context

Glenn Hoddle’s 1998 World Cup saw England adopt a three-centre-back, with Gareth Southgate at centre-back in the round-of-16 loss to Argentina – the nation’s first knockout exit since the 1990 fourth-place finish. In 2026, manager Thomas Tuchel again emphasizes defensive versatility, echoing that earlier tactical flexibility and has included versatile defender John Stones in the squad.

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England Sets XI

England will start Ezri Konsa at right-back and John Stones at centre-back in the July 11, 2026 match versus Norway in Miami.
Marc Guehi, cleared from a minor hamstring strain, joins John Stones in defence.
Noni Madueke starts on the wing ahead of Bukayo Saka, who sits out with Achilles tendinitis.
Thomas Tuchel confirmed players except suspended Jarell Quansah are available, with the winner set to meet Argentina or Switzerland in Atlanta.

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