England 3-0 Latvia: Fans Call For Tuchel to Start ‘Generational’ Star Over 33-Cap Ace

After facing a couple of scares that could’ve seen the visitors go ahead, a stunning Reece James free-kick on his first international start since September 2022 settled the nerves to give the hosts the advantage, before Harry Kane found the net once again and Eberechi Eze sealed the deal. It wasn’t just James’ wonderful strike – his first in England colours – that got people talking, though, as his efforts have now put pressure on another star man.

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It was more of the same from the England star who continued to struggle for the Three Lions.

Reece James Impresses Against Latvia

The world-class free-kick was the icing on the cake for the defender

Aside from his fantastic goal, James was one of England’s best overall performers all night. The full-back lost possession of the ball just five times, despite the fact he had over 110 touches of the ball and played 97 passes – 96 of which were successful. He also proved to be a creative threat, playing one key pass to his teammates, while being accurate with 66% of his crosses.

Given that the Three Lions had more than 70% possession, there wasn’t a great deal of defending to be done, but there was enough for James to still get in the thick of it. The 25-year-old made two interceptions, two tackles, and won 50% of his ground duels, showcasing great defensive prowess, which is deemed to be one of the weaknesses of another man competing for the right-back spot, who should perhaps fear for his place in the starting XI moving forward if James can stay fit.

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England Fans Demand James Replaces Trent Alexander-Arnold

The two right-backs are likely to compete for the spot at the 2026 World Cup

One of the biggest casualties from Tuchel’s first squad was Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, who would’ve surely added to his 33 caps had it not been for the injury he suffered against Paris Saint-Germain as the Reds were eliminated from the Champions League. With the 26-year-old on the sidelines, he was forced to watch as first Kyle Walker and then James featured on the right side of the back four in the new manager’s first two games in charge.

The Chelsea captain in particular certainly made the most of his opportunity, and fans are now demanding that, if he stays fit, he becomes the first-choice right-back for the 2026 World Cup.

“Injuries have stopped us seeing the best right-back in football, should be playing at Real Madrid. Alexander-Arnold is lucky that Reece James is unlucky,” wrote one fan on social media, as another stated: “Reece James reminding everyone he can do everything Trent can do and more.”

A third added: “So long as James is fit, don’t expect to see Trent starting, Tuchel might bring back 2021 RJ,” while a fourth went on to say: “The disrespect Reece James get is way too much. Frequent injuries made people forgot that he is the best RB in the world. Generational talent.”