England selection debate sharpens before Mexico last-16 tie

England will face Mexico at Azteca Stadium in the last 16 after Harry Kane scored twice late on in a comeback win over DR Congo. The immediate question is whether Thomas Tuchel sticks with the same core or adjusts a side Wayne Rooney said still has “big concerns.”

The BBC source frames the debate around two main areas: right-back and the wide forward roles. Djed Spence is discussed as a possible full-back option, while Anthony Gordon’s two assists have put him in the conversation alongside Marcus Rashford.

Bukayo Saka’s fitness is also raised as a selection issue, but the available source does not include a confirmed medical update or a manager’s decision. That makes any predicted XI speculative until further reporting or official team news emerges.

For editors, the strongest angle is not a firm lineup prediction but the tension between momentum and caution: England survived the previous round, yet their next opponent may force clearer answers about balance, width and defensive trust.