Wayne Rooney thinks Kobbie Mainoo should start for England against Congo on 1 July.
What happened?
Rooney explained why Thomas Tuchel should choose Mainoo ahead of Elliot Anderson.
Mainoo had a great season with Manchester United, finishing with one goal and three assists in 30 appearances.
Why it matters for Wayne Rooney
Rooney said Mainoo's ability to play in tight areas is his biggest strength.
He also praised Mainoo's passing ability, saying he can give England a bit of both.
What comes next?
England face Congo in the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 on 1 July, and Rooney believes Mainoo should start.
Emile Heskey, a former England striker, also questioned Tuchel's decision to bring on Jordan Henderson instead of Mainoo.
Heskey said he was surprised by the decision, given Mainoo's impressive form.
Rooney also discussed Elliot Anderson's proposed move to Manchester City, saying he was sad that United missed out on the midfielder.
Anderson had a fantastic campaign with Nottingham Forest, and Rooney praised his ability.
However, Rooney noted that big-money moves can sometimes not work out, citing Kalvin Phillips and Jack Grealish as examples.
Mainoo was outstanding for England at Euro 2024, starting the final against Spain.
Tuchel now needs to trust the young midfielder, especially after his impressive performances over the last six months.
Rooney's comments come as England prepare to face Congo in the World Cup, with the winner advancing to the next round.
The match is scheduled to take place on 1 July at the Atalanta Stadium.
England finished top of Group L, courtesy of a run of two wins and one draw in the group stage.
The team will be looking to build on their impressive form, with Mainoo potentially playing a key role.
Rooney's backing of Mainoo is a significant boost for the young midfielder, who will be looking to impress Tuchel and the England coaching staff.
The decision to start Mainoo will be closely watched, given the importance of the match and the potential impact on England's World Cup campaign.
The 2026 World Cup has already seen several surprises, and England will be looking to avoid an upset against Congo.
With Rooney's support, Mainoo will be looking to take his chance and prove himself on the biggest stage.
The match against Congo is a crucial one for England, and the team will be looking to build on their impressive form in the group stage.
Rooney's comments have added to the excitement surrounding the match, with fans eagerly anticipating the decision on Mainoo's inclusion.
The young midfielder has already shown his ability, and a start against Congo could be the perfect opportunity for him to shine.
The world will be watching as England take on Congo, with the winner advancing to the next round of the World Cup.
The match is set to be an exciting one, with both teams looking to build on their impressive form.
Rooney's backing of Mainoo has added an extra layer of intrigue to the match, and fans will be eagerly anticipating the outcome.