Souness slams ‘limited’ Rice and Anderson after Argentina defeat | OneFootball

England crashed out of the 2026 World Cup in the semi-final after losing 2-1 to Argentina despite taking the lead through Anthony Gordon.

The Three Lions gave up possession and decided to defend deep, inviting wave after wave of Argentine pressure.

Much of the blame for the cowardly retreat has been laid at the feet of manager Thomas Tuchel.

However, the German tactician blamed the English players’ DNA, suggesting that holding on to the ball was not part of their football culture.

Graeme Souness did not like the midfield play, saying he didn’t see enough from them.

He expected Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson to take charge of the ball and keep England on the front foot after the goal.

He compared them to Spain’s Rodri before claiming (via Sports Uncensored), “The two midfielders (Rice and Anderson) are limited.”

He also said, “I think (Rice) might be a centre half.”

Souness does not believe Rice is world-class, despite his consistency over the past three years. He also wants to see improvement from Anderson.

In fairness to Souness, he is right that both Anderson and Rice need to show more on the ball, not simply recycle it.

It is not about simply punching balls through the lines. It is about understanding time and space.

Being able to seize control of the game with the ball in such a way that gives teammates an extra second to receive and attack.

Rice’s situation is somewhat understandable as he has been sick for days and struggled to impose himself. He is undoubtedly a world-class operator.

Anderson could learn a thing or two from playing beside Rodri for Manchester City. Not many can run a game the way he does.

The Three Lions have another opportunity at the 2028 European Championship to redeem themselves. They will need their midfielders to exert their dominance in the centre of the park.

Tuchel said it wasn’t in their DNA. He must find a way to code it in during the upcoming qualifiers and friendlies.