Tuchel has no excuse to keep sidelining England weapon Trent Alexander-Arnold | OneFootball

England manager Thomas Tuchel once again raised eyebrows when he decided to start Jarell Quansah at right-back against Spain in the Nations League ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The German tactician has made some puzzling decisions since taking charge of the Three Lions, but his continued omission of the Real Madrid star has been particularly egregious.

Quansah was awful against Spain as England lost 3-2. For all of Alexander-Arnold’s defensive frailties, he couldn’t have done worse than his former Liverpool counterpart.

Given a chance to show what he is capable of against the Czech Republic, Alexander-Arnold reminded Tuchel that he is one of the best in the world in his position.

He may have failed to win any of his duels, but he created Anthony Gordon’s goal and constantly threatened with his crosses (4/9 completed).

England claimed a 2-0 victory and their first three points of their Nations League campaign.

Alexander-Arnold remains defensively susceptible but makes up for it by being an absolute weapon in the final third. His ability to unlock defences from the right flank is second to none.

Reece James is more complete. Unfortunately, the Chelsea man struggles to stay fit these days. He is currently injured.

Meanwhile, Valentino Livramento’s progress has somewhat stalled at Newcastle United, and Kyle Walker has retired from international football.

There is no reason for Tuchel to sideline Alexander-Arnold when he should be starting games (at least ahead of Quansah).

Alexander-Arnold’s tepid form at Los Blancos following his acrimonious departure from Liverpool has likely not helped his case, but he should get a chance now. He deserves it.

Interestingly, according to Opta, England have won 74.1% of the matches Alexander-Arnold has started for England (20/27).

Of players to start 25+ games in England’s history, only Marcus Rashford has a better win percentage (77%, won 27/35).

The Three Lions have a crucial trip to the always tricky Croatia before they host the Czech Republic, and Alexander-Arnold should be the starter heading into those fixtures.