Should Declan Rice Play at Right-Back? David James Suggests Bold England Tactical Switch Ahead of FIFA World Cup Clash with DR Congo

England enter the knockout phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup facing an unexpected selection dilemma. While the Three Lions comfortably progressed through the group stage as one of the tournament favorites, injuries have severely weakened one crucial position—right-back. With multiple defenders unavailable, former England goalkeeper David James believes manager Thomas Tuchel should make a bold tactical decision by moving Declan Rice from midfield to right-back against DR Congo.

The proposal has generated significant discussion among football analysts and supporters. Rice is widely regarded as one of England’s most influential midfielders, making the suggestion unconventional. However, James argues that England’s depth in midfield allows Tuchel to solve the defensive problem without significantly weakening other areas of the team.

As knockout football leaves little room for mistakes, every tactical decision could prove decisive in England’s pursuit of a first World Cup title since 1966.

Why England Are Facing a Right-Back Crisis

England’s preparations for the Round of 32 have been disrupted by a series of injuries affecting the right side of the defense.

The problems began before the tournament when Tino Livramento was ruled out with a calf injury. During the group stage, first-choice right-back Reece James suffered a hamstring injury in the goalless draw against Ghana, forcing him out of the knockout stages.

The situation became even more complicated when replacement defender Jarrel Quansah twisted his ankle during England’s victory over Panama, leaving Djed Spence as the only naturally fit right-back available.

Such circumstances have forced England’s coaching staff to consider alternative tactical solutions rather than relying solely on specialist defenders.

David James’ Case for Declan Rice at Right-Back

David James believes Rice possesses the tactical intelligence, defensive awareness and technical ability needed to succeed in the unfamiliar role.

“Declan Rice did play at right-back for Arsenal a couple of times last season. If it were to be an option you would still have Elliot Anderson and Bellingham in midfield. You’re taking care of a position in need, but you still have the quality in your natural positions. We have the strength and the quality.”

James’ argument is based on squad balance rather than individual preference. By shifting Rice into defense, England could maintain a strong midfield through the availability of other talented players while addressing their biggest weakness before the knockout rounds.

England’s Right-Back Options

Can Declan Rice Successfully Adapt?

Although primarily recognized as a defensive midfielder, Rice has demonstrated versatility throughout his career. His positional awareness, ability to read the game and composure under pressure make him one of England’s most tactically reliable players.

Modern football increasingly values versatile players capable of performing multiple roles during major tournaments. Rice’s experience protecting the back line as a holding midfielder means many of the defensive principles required at right-back would already be familiar.

However, playing as a full-back also demands different movement patterns, overlapping runs and one-on-one defending against pacey wingers, making the transition far from straightforward.

How England Could Reshape Their Midfield

One reason James supports the idea is England’s impressive midfield depth.

If Rice were deployed in defense, players such as Jude Bellingham and Elliot Anderson could continue operating in central areas without dramatically reducing the team’s overall quality.

This flexibility allows Tuchel to solve one positional problem while preserving England’s creative and defensive balance through midfield.

It also demonstrates the value of building squads capable of adapting to unforeseen circumstances during international tournaments.

England’s Group Stage Performance

The Three Lions advanced to the knockout rounds by finishing top of their group, reinforcing their status among the tournament favorites.

While England have not always produced spectacular attacking football, they have shown defensive discipline, tactical organization and the ability to secure important results.

Those qualities often become increasingly valuable as tournaments progress into the elimination rounds, where individual mistakes frequently determine outcomes.

Thomas Tuchel Faces His Biggest Tactical Test Yet

Since taking charge of England in January 2025, Thomas Tuchel has emphasized tactical flexibility and structured team play.

The right-back crisis now presents one of his biggest managerial challenges.

He must decide whether to:

• Trust Djed Spence as the natural right-back.
• Deploy Declan Rice in an unfamiliar defensive role.
• Adjust England’s formation to reduce pressure on the right flank.
• Introduce another versatile player capable of filling the position.

Each option carries different tactical advantages and potential risks.

Preparing for Knockout Football

Tuchel has also confirmed that England are fully prepared for one of knockout football’s biggest challenges—penalty shootouts.

The England manager revealed that the Football Association continues to follow the structured preparation process introduced during Gareth Southgate’s tenure.

“The FA has a programme that has been in place for years and we follow the programme. We are prepared. We have a process.”

England’s improved penalty record in recent tournaments has helped change one of the nation’s longest-running football narratives, giving players greater confidence should matches remain level after extra time.

Why Squad Depth Could Be England’s Biggest Strength

International tournaments often reward teams with adaptable squads rather than simply the strongest starting eleven.

England possess quality across multiple positions, allowing Tuchel to consider creative tactical adjustments without significantly weakening the team.

Versatility has become increasingly valuable in modern football, particularly when injuries accumulate during demanding tournament schedules.

Rice’s ability to potentially fill multiple roles reflects this evolution in elite football management.

What to Expect Against DR Congo

DR Congo enter the knockout stage as dangerous opponents capable of troubling any team on their day.

England are expected to dominate possession, meaning the right-back role will require not only defensive discipline but also effective support during attacking phases.

If Rice starts in the position, his passing ability and composure could help England build attacks more efficiently from deep areas while maintaining defensive stability.

However, DR Congo’s pace on the counterattack will test whichever player occupies that position.

Will Tuchel Take the Risk?

Major tournaments often produce bold tactical decisions that define a manager’s legacy.

Deploying one of England’s most important midfielders in defense would certainly qualify as a courageous move, but it may also demonstrate the adaptability required to win knockout football.

Whether Tuchel embraces David James’ recommendation or sticks with a natural full-back, the decision will reflect his broader philosophy as England chase World Cup glory.

Conclusion

David James’ suggestion to move Declan Rice to right-back highlights the tactical challenges England face ahead of their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 meeting with DR Congo. Injuries have left Thomas Tuchel with limited specialist options, making squad versatility more important than ever.

Rice’s defensive intelligence, leadership and composure make him a credible alternative, while England’s depth in midfield could allow such a switch without disrupting the team’s overall balance. At the same time, selecting players outside their natural positions always carries an element of risk, particularly during the knockout stages of the world’s biggest football tournament.

With England aiming to take another step toward World Cup success, Tuchel’s team selection will be closely watched. Whether he opts for experience, versatility or conventional positioning, the Three Lions know that every tactical decision from this stage onward could shape their journey toward football’s ultimate prize.