Midfielder Declan Rice struggled with injury and was criticized as 'steady Eddie' by pundit Graeme Souness
England's World Cup exit blamed on more than Tuchel's tactics
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Summary
England's World Cup hopes ended with a semi-final defeat to Argentina, leaving head coach Thomas Tuchel facing criticism. However, according to analysts, the loss cannot be blamed solely on Tuchel's tactics. England struggled with midfield issues, as key player Declan Rice was hampered by injury and illness throughout the tournament. Former midfielder Graeme Souness described Rice as a 'steady Eddie' player, lacking the creativity of top midfielders like Rodri, and suggested Rice has reached his ceiling. Tuchel noted a recurring pattern where England becomes passive after scoring, a problem seen in previous tournaments. Meanwhile, Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, proved formidable as defending champions.
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But Souness disagrees with that assessment of Rice, insisting he is nothing more than a ‘steady Eddie’ in comparison to the world’s best like Manchester City star and Spain World Cup finalist Rodri. ‘Elliot Anderson is very young so he’s got a chance to get better but Declan won’t get any better,’ Souness, one of the best midfielders of his generation, told Sports Uncensored .
reliability moderate2/2 sourcesEngland head coach Thomas Tuchel reacts during the Fifa World Cup 2026 semi-final match between England and Argentina. (EPA Images pic) ATLANTA : Thomas Tuchel was hailed as England’s best chance to win the World Cup, but after another failure, the German has faced a barrage of criticism in the aftermath of their semi-final defeat by Argentina, though his tactics were not the only reason.
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Rice struggled with injury and illness during England’s World Cup campaign, which was ended by reigning champions Argentina in the semi-final stage .
according to MetroThe two anchors didn’t take part in that second half. ‘Neither of them are midfield maestros, they’re steady Eddie players.
according to MetroWhat the armchair experts forget is that on Wednesday, England were facing the defending champions, still being inspired by the world’s greatest player, Lionel Messi.
according to Free Malaysia TodayManager Thomas Tuchel highlighted a recurring issue where England become passive and lose momentum after scoring, a pattern seen in previous major tournaments.
according to The IndependentNext time, call a foul! “He’s just unstoppable when he goes into that mood.
according to Free Malaysia Today
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England head coach Thomas Tuchel reacts during the Fifa World Cup 2026 semi-final match between England and Argentina. (EPA Images pic)…
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