Alex Scott gives England midfield selection boost as Thomas Tuchel raises pressure on Declan Rice

Thomas Tuchel says Alex Scott has strengthened his case for an England midfield place after making an impressive first international start in the 7-0 victory over Croatia.

The Bournemouth midfielder came into the side alongside Elliot Anderson after Declan Rice withdrew from the squad for the UEFA Nations League match.

Scott helped England establish control in midfield as they dominated Croatia’s experienced pairing of Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic. His performance has provided Tuchel with another option as England prepare for their next Nations League fixture.

Tuchel welcomed the increased competition and said Rice could not assume his position in the team was secure.

“Of course, and he does, we need performances like this,” Tuchel said when asked whether Rice should be concerned about his place.

“This is just the nature of it. We will not survive on two central midfielders.”

The England manager was also clear that Rice remains central to his plans and described him as one of the leading midfielders in Europe. However, Tuchel believes England need more depth and variety in the middle of the pitch.

“Declan knows about his importance, and he’s one of the very best midfielders in Europe,” he said.

“Nothing will change that. But it’s exactly what we need. We need more, more, more variety. We need more options. Then it’s always about the guys who are in camp. Alex was at the highest level.”

Scott’s display means England now have greater competition for midfield places ahead of Tuesday’s Nations League meeting with the Czech Republic at Wembley.

The result against Croatia gave England a convincing start to their latest Nations League campaign, although they remain second in their group behind World Cup holders Spain.

For Scott, the opportunity came after Rice’s withdrawal, but his performance has given Tuchel further evidence that England can look beyond their established midfield options. The Bournemouth player’s ability to operate alongside Anderson also helped England control a match featuring two of Croatia’s most experienced players.

Tuchel’s comments underline the importance of competition within the squad while maintaining Rice’s status as a key figure. England will now look to build on their emphatic win when they face the Czech Republic.