Richards Makes Case for Palmer and Foden Over Henderson in England's World Cup Squad

Micah Richards has publicly questioned Thomas Tuchel's squad selection, specifically taking aim at the inclusion of Brentford's Jordan Henderson while suggesting three alternatives would have strengthened England's World Cup contingent.

Since taking over from Gareth Southgate, Tuchel has made several unconventional squad calls, prioritizing team cohesion over marquee names. Yet his decision to bring Henderson—competing in his seventh major tournament—has drawn scrutiny, with critics suggesting the midfielder's selection prioritizes experience and morale over genuine on-pitch impact.

Speaking to The Metro, Richards laid out his alternative vision: "I would have maybe sacrificed that for an Alex Scott, a Foden, a Palmer, someone who might not get the minutes they expect but come alive in those big moments in games where it can all change."

The pundit was emphatic about his preference for attacking talent in the squad. "I would have taken Foden or Palmer, one or both of them, 100 per cent. Just because they can change the game," he explained, though he remained upbeat about the starting eleven's quality. "But the starting XI is as good as most in the competition. So I'm quietly confident."

Richards also expressed surprise at Harry Maguire's omission from the squad. "Harry Maguire has never let England down so I was surprised by that one," he said, before highlighting what Foden specifically could offer in tournament football.

The Manchester City winger's potential impact looms large in Richards' thinking, particularly given the unique demands of the competition. "Defensive set pieces and attacking set pieces are going to be so important," he noted. "And because of the temperature, the tempo is going to be a bit slower. Foden could come on and change a game even if he hasn't done it for England like we expect for him. Those players have something special."

Despite his reservations about specific selections, Richards praised Tuchel's conviction. "But I love Tuchel for making his decision and sticking to it. He doesn't care about the noise."

Alan Shearer, meanwhile, has offered tactical guidance for England's World Cup opener against Croatia should Bukayo Saka be unavailable. Speaking on The Rest is Football, the former Newcastle striker suggested Tuchel consider pairing Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford on either flank rather than deploying Noni Madueke.

"He's got the option to play Anthony Gordon or Marcus Rashford on the right-hand side and the other one on the left-hand side, either side of Harry Kane," Shearer explained. "Which would give you the pace and the press and also the ability to sit back and counterattack as well, rather than Madueke. That's perhaps an option I would look at if Saka isn't fit to start the game."