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Tuchel backs injury-hit Stones for World Cup
30 Mar
Summary
- John Stones' World Cup selection depends on fitness due to calf issue.
- Thomas Tuchel considers Stones a key player, despite limited recent appearances.
- England faces an injury crisis with multiple players sidelined.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has affirmed John Stones remains a crucial part of his World Cup plans, provided the defender can overcome his persistent injury issues. Stones, who has earned 87 caps, has featured only four times under Tuchel due to recurring fitness problems, most recently a calf injury that ruled him out of the friendly against Japan.
Tuchel described Stones as having significant 'credit in the bank' due to his quality and mentality, but stressed that fitness is paramount for all players. This situation contrasts with Harry Maguire, who played well against Uruguay but is seen as further down the pecking order.
The squad is further depleted by injuries to Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, and Adam Wharton, among others. Tuchel acknowledged the frustration of not having a full squad available, particularly in the final camp before the World Cup.
Despite the setbacks, Tuchel expressed confidence in the remaining players and their ability to perform against Japan, who are ranked 18th globally and boast a strong recent record. He anticipates a challenging match against a well-drilled, mobile Japanese side.
