Shearer Backs 'Bold' Call to Bench Bellingham for England's World Cup Opener

England's preparations for this summer's World Cup are entering the final stretch, with Thomas Tuchel's squad gearing up for their first group-stage test against Croatia on June 17. The Three Lions face Ghana and Panama in Group L as well, heading into the tournament among the bookmakers' favourites.

While Tuchel has prioritised squad harmony over pure star power in his selection, he still faces some thorny decisions when it comes to naming his starting XI for the opening fixture. Reports have already suggested that departing Manchester City defender John Stones is expected to feature from the off, but the real headache centres on who occupies the number 10 position.

Both Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid and Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers are in the frame to start behind Harry Kane, and it's this decision that has caught the attention of former England striker Alan Shearer. The pundit believes Rogers deserves the nod, describing it as the "bold pick" Tuchel should make.

Speaking to The Sun, Shearer outlined his reasoning. Rogers, he argued, has had the better season and has managed to avoid the injury troubles that have occasionally sidelined Bellingham. "Rogers has maybe just edged it," Shearer said, adding that the Villa man has earned his opportunity at the tournament through consistent performances.

The former Newcastle United skipper was full of praise for Rogers' talents and mentality, expressing confidence that he can perform at the highest level when called upon. However, Shearer also acknowledged the reality of modern tournament football, noting that the starting XI for game one won't necessarily be the same cast that features throughout.

That flexibility could work in Bellingham's favour, Shearer suggested. Tuchel has the pedigree to manage big-name players left on the bench, and rotation will be key to navigating the group stage and beyond. The conditions of the tournament, Shearer reflected, mean squad depth and adaptability matter more than ever—a far cry from his own World Cup experience in 1998, when the same XI might have been expected to start every match.