In the World Cup semi-final, England will face Argentina. Ahead of the match, legend Michael Owen believes that Thomas Tuchel should make one or two adjustments for the semi-final and discussed possible scenarios if the game reaches the final.
Discussing England and Argentina's path to the final
Owen stated, "I don't think either team played to their full potential throughout the tournament. We didn't play particularly well against Norway. So we definitely need to perform better in the semi-finals to win and to win the whole tournament."
"But you could say the same about Argentina. I'm not saying they had a bye all the way (against strong opponents), but on paper, they had a very tough run on an easy path to the semi-finals. So both teams will think they can win, and the situation is quite even."
Discussing England's squad selection
England have a boost in their preparations for the semi-finals, with Tuchel having a nearly full squad available, the only exceptions being the injured Jordan Henderson and the suspended Cuaanza.
Although Irving expects the German coach to not make extensive changes on Wednesday, he believes that after Saka's impressive performance as a substitute in the match against Norway, the German should give him a starting opportunity instead of Madoueke.
Irving analyzed: "I think he'll make one or two adjustments. The team's lineup has been relatively stable throughout the tournament, and I don't think he'll make any major changes now. I think the right wing position is where he should consider making adjustments. Saka and Madou Kehke both like to dribble past defenders and get past opponents. Obviously, Saka has just recovered from injury and is slowly regaining his match fitness, but my intuition is that he'll start this game. It feels like it wouldn't make sense not to start him in such an important match."
In addition, Reece James is also vying for a starting position after coming off the bench against Norway.
Discussing the grievances between the two sides
The rivalry between England and Argentina extends far beyond the football field, but Owen believes Tuchel has no need to deliberately stir up these emotions for such an important match.
He insisted, "This rivalry isn't insignificant, but it takes a backseat in the context of a World Cup semi-final. If it were a friendly, we'd say things like, 'Remember this, remember that,' because you're trying to create excitement. But now, forget about rivalries; this is a World Cup semi-final, and that alone is more important than anything else."
"To be honest, Thomas Tuchel wouldn't care that much about what happened 50 or 60 years ago. I can't imagine his pre-match pep talk revolving around rivalries. He would say we have more important things to do, we have a real chance to win the World Cup."
Talking about Reece James
Reece James missed England’s last two games ahead of the quarter-finals, but Owen believes the risk of using the 26-year-old will pay off.
Irving said: "When he's healthy, Reece James is definitely one of the best right-backs in the world. When you look at the world-class players at each position, you'd say Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham are, but Reece James is in that category too. So with that in mind, you have to consider starting him. It's not like he's been out for a month or two. So if he's healthy, I'd be inclined to start him."
Talking about France and Spain
If England wins, they will face a dream final against either Spain or France, but Owen has no doubt that it will be a tough battle for the Three Lions.
He said: "As an England fan, I think we will definitely reach the final. I think we have a better chance against Spain than against France. But both of those teams will be the favorites against us. I think we will reach the final and then lose it. That's roughly my opinion. Of course, I support England, but rationally I tell myself that France is stronger than us, and Spain is probably stronger than us too."
