Neville Predicts Defensive Tweaks for Ghana Test as Bellingham Silences Critics

Following England's scintillating 4-2 demolition of Croatia to kickstart their World Cup campaign, Gary Neville reckons Thomas Tuchel will shuffle his defensive pack for Tuesday's clash with Ghana.

Harry Kane's brace, supplemented by strikes from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford, set the tone for what became a dominant second-half performance. Yet despite the victory, Neville believes adjustments are on the horizon—particularly in how the Three Lions marshal their backline.

"I do expect changes," Neville declared on Sky Sports News. "Ghana have got Antoine Semenyo, Brandon Thomas-Asante—players who operate one-on-one and can shift the ball quickly across the pitch."

The pundit specifically identified Guehi and Djed Spence as likely inclusions, with the latter having made a compelling case during his cameo appearance against the Croatians. Neville was effusive in his praise for Spence's defensive intensity and attacking thrust down the flank, likening his defensive approach to that of a relentless pursuer.

Regarding John Stones, Neville suggested the Manchester City stalwart might be managed through the tournament rather than featuring in every fixture, given the demanding schedule of matches every three or four days.

Tuchel's half-time adjustments drew particular commendation from Neville, who highlighted the gaffer's willingness to make bold tactical shifts when Croatia began clawing their way back into proceedings. Moving Bellingham into central midfield alongside Elliot Anderson proved especially astute, with England producing what Neville termed "probably the best 10 to 15 minutes we've seen from any team in the tournament so far."

On Bellingham himself, the former Manchester United defender was unequivocal: the Real Madrid sensation has put to bed any lingering debate about his tournament credentials. Questions surrounding his relationship with Tuchel and his place in the starting XI have been decisively answered.

"He's a superstar," Neville insisted. "He looked so relaxed in the tunnel—like he belongs here, like this is something he does every day and very easily."

Bellingham's performance justified the faith placed in him, with Neville rating him arguably England's standout performer across both halves. While acknowledging Morgan Rogers as a capable deputy who will feature prominently in the tournament, Neville left no doubt about the hierarchy: Bellingham is a guaranteed starter, not a substitute option.

"There's been a lot of questions over the last 12 months about whether him and Thomas Tuchel get on," Neville reflected. "But there's no doubt Bellingham has to start. He's someone who basically has to be in that first XI."